Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) is a beginner-level aquarium plant. A fast-growing, rootless plant that absorbs nutrients and shelters fry. It can shed needles when stressed.

Care facts at a glance

Scientific nameCeratophyllum demersum
FamilyCeratophyllaceae
OriginWorldwide
Height24+ in
LightLow to medium
CO2Optional
PlacementFloating or anchored, stem
Growth rateFast
Temperature60-86°F
pH6.0-8.0
DifficultyBeginner
PropagationCuttings

Quick tips

  • Float it or loosely anchor it.
  • Trim often.

San Diego water

Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. 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.

Pet Zone Convoy

4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm

Aquascaping, planted tanks

Pet Zone Mid-City

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