Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Red’ is one of the most popular and reliable aquarium plants in the hobby. Native to Sri Lanka, this polymorphous species is loved for its deep red to bronze foliage, extreme adaptability, and beginner-friendly nature. The ‘Red’ variety is especially prized for its hardiness, color variation, and ability to thrive in low-tech setups.
Supplied as a bare root plant, C. wendtii ‘Red’ establishes easily and adapts well to a wide range of aquarium conditions. Its growth form changes based on lighting, making it a highly versatile plant for creative aquascaping.
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Key Features
Deep Red Foliage
Leaves range from bronze to deep red depending on lighting and nutrients.
Extremely Hardy
Thrives in a wide range of water parameters.
Lighting-Responsive Growth
Low light = upright growth
High light = compact, spreading growth
Bare Root Ready
Easy to plant with no rock wool or pot.
Versatile Placement
Perfect for foreground, midground, or open layouts.
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Benefits
Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Red’ is a classic choice for both beginners and experienced aquascapers. Its slow to moderate growth makes it easy to maintain, while its adaptable size allows it to fit into almost any tank design. Once established, it becomes extremely stable and long-lasting.
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Care Guide
Light
Low to medium lighting.
Water Temperature
72–82°F (22–28°C)
Placement
Foreground to Midground
Substrate
Plant roots into substrate; leave crown exposed.
CO₂
Not required.
Growth Rate
Medium
Maintenance Level
Easy
Avoid moving once planted to prevent “crypt melt.”
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Pro Tips
• Under high light, leaves grow low and spread outward
• Under moderate light, leaves grow taller and more upright
• Stable water conditions prevent melting
• Root tabs greatly improve size and coloration
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Perfect For
• Beginner aquariums
• Low-tech setups
• Natural aquascapes
• Community tanks
• Planted shrimp tanks
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Why Choose Cryptocoryne Wendtii ‘Red’?
• One of the most reliable aquarium plants ever
• Beautiful red coloration without high-tech needs
• Thrives in low light
• Extremely hardy and forgiving
• Grows well in almost any freshwater tank
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Quality Assurance
• Healthy, bare root plants
• Inspected before shipping
• Shipped fresh and ready to plant
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Live Arrival Guarantee
Your plant is protected by our Live Arrival Guarantee.
If it arrives damaged or unhealthy, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with photos for a replacement or refund.
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Important Notes
• Initial “crypt melt” is normal after planting
• Leaves regrow stronger after acclimation
• Color varies naturally with lighting and nutrients
🌱 Care & Resources
Browse more: Cryptocoryne Crypts · All Aquarium Plants
📖 Care guides: Cryptocoryne Chronicles: A Comprehensive Guide to Care and Cultivation · Cryptocoryne Plants: Complete Care Guide for 2026
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