Jungle Vallisneria (Vallisneria gigantea)

Description

Species Background
Vallisneria gigantea is a true freshwater rosette plant native to slow moving rivers, lakes, and floodplain systems across parts of Asia and Australia. In the wild it grows fully submerged in open water, often forming long ribbon like stands that sway with current. These beds act as shelter and navigation lanes for fish, especially larger species that prefer vertical cover without dense branching.

This is not a cultivated novelty form. It is a naturally large species that does exactly what nature designed it to do when given space.

Growth Behavior
This is a classic rosette plant that spreads by runners. Once established, it sends out horizontal shoots that form new plants across the substrate. It is a heavy root feeder and anchors deeply once settled. Growth is steady rather than explosive, but it does not stay small and it does not ask permission before reaching the surface.

Size and Growth Form
Leaves commonly reach 36 to 60 inches in length in aquariums, sometimes longer in deep tanks. The growth form is tall, upright, and ribbon like, with leaves that gently twist and bend rather than standing rigid. Fish routinely weave through the leaves, and larger tanks gain an immediate sense of scale and depth once it fills in.

Aquascaping Tip
Use Giant Vallisneria along the back or corners of large aquariums to create a living wall that hides equipment while preserving open swimming space.

Water Parameters
Temperature: 68–82°F
pH: 6.5–8.0
GH: 4–18
KH: 3–12

This wide tolerance reflects modern farm raised stock that has adapted well to both softer planted tanks and harder community setups. It is notably forgiving compared to many large background plants.

Light Requirements
Low to medium light. Under low light it grows taller and more relaxed. Under stronger light it remains slightly more compact at the base but will still reach the surface.

CO₂ Requirements
CO₂ is not required. Supplemental CO₂ improves growth speed and leaf thickness but is entirely optional.

Nutrient Requirements
Primarily a substrate feeder. A nutrient rich substrate or regular root tabs are strongly recommended for long term success. Water column fertilization supports overall health but will not replace root nutrition.

Tank Placement
Background only. This plant is meant for tall displays and large footprints. Once established, it defines the vertical structure of the aquarium.

Why Aquarists Keep It
Giant Vallisneria delivers scale, motion, and habitat without visual clutter. It creates calm, open environments that large fish and schooling species clearly prefer, and it brings a natural, river like presence that few plants can match.