Japanese Cress (Cardamine lyrata) (Cardamine lyrata) is a intermediate-level aquarium plant. A bright green plant with rounded leaves that grows best in cooler water. In a warm tropical tank it can melt, so it suits cooler setups or tanks kept at the low end of the range.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Cardamine lyrata |
|---|---|
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Origin | East Asia |
| Height | 4-12 in |
| Light | Medium |
| CO2 | Optional |
| Placement | Midground |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Temperature | 59-77°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Quick tips
- Best in cooler water; heat can make it melt.
- Give it good light and nutrients.
- Trim and replant healthy tops.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
New to planted tanks? Start with our beginner planted tank guide and the plant fertilizer guide.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi