Water Violet (Hottonia palustris) is an advanced-level aquarium plant. A feathery European stem plant that prefers cool, soft, clean water. It melts in warm tropical tanks, so it suits unheated or cool-water setups better than a typical community tank.

Care facts at a glance

Scientific nameHottonia palustris
FamilyPrimulaceae
OriginEurope and western Asia
Height8-16 in
LightMedium to high
CO2Helpful
PlacementMidground to background
Growth rateModerate
Temperature59-72°F
pH6.0-7.5
DifficultyAdvanced
PropagationCuttings

Quick tips

  • Keep water below the low 70s F.
  • Provide good light and clean water.
  • Do not move it once rooted.

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.

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