Overview
Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) is one of the easiest and fastest-growing aquarium plants available. Known for its soft, feathery foliage and rapid nutrient uptake, this hardy plant is ideal for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. It can be used as a floating plant or planted loosely in the substrate, making it extremely versatile for aquascaping and water quality control.
What You Will Receive
• Quantity: 1 Bunch (Multiple Healthy Stems)
• Stem Length: Typically 6–10+ inches at shipping
• Growth Form: Loose stems, ready to float or plant
Stem count and fullness may vary naturally.
Key Features
• Fast-growing live aquarium plant
• Feathery, bright green foliage
• Can float or be planted in substrate
• Excellent natural nitrate absorber
• Beginner-friendly and low maintenance
• Safe for fish, shrimp, and fry
Benefits
• Helps reduce algae by absorbing excess nutrients
• Improves water quality and oxygenation
• Provides excellent cover for fry and shrimp
• Creates a natural, soft background effect
• Ideal for cycling new aquariums
Product Specifications
• Common Name: Hornwort
• Scientific Name:Ceratophyllum demersum
• Plant Type: Floating or stem plant
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Lighting Requirement: Low to Moderate
• CO₂ Requirement: Not required
• Placement: Floating, Midground, Background
• Temperature Range: 59–82°F (15–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Type: Freshwater
• Substrate: Not required
Care Guide
Lighting
Grows well in low to moderate lighting. Higher light promotes faster, denser growth.
CO₂
Not required. Thrives in low-tech aquariums.
Planting Options
• Float freely for best growth and nutrient absorption
• Can be loosely planted in substrate (no roots required)
Maintenance
Trim regularly to control length and prevent overcrowding. Simply remove excess growth.
Compatibility
Excellent for community tanks, shrimp tanks, fry grow-out tanks, and goldfish aquariums. Provides natural shelter and spawning cover.
Perfect For
• Beginner aquariums
• Low-tech planted tanks
• Fry and shrimp tanks
• Floating plant setups
• Algae control and water quality improvement
Why Choose Hornwort?
• One of the easiest aquarium plants to grow
• Extremely fast nutrient absorber
• No substrate or CO₂ required
• Ideal for improving tank stability
• Multiples quickly with simple trimming
Quality Assurance
• Healthy, hand-selected stems
• Inspected before shipping
• Shipped fresh and ready to use
Live Arrival Guarantee
Your plant is protected by ourLive Arrival Guarantee.
Contact us within2 hours of deliverywith clear photos if your plant arrives damaged. We will provide a replacement or refund within 2 business days.
Extreme weather packaging is required for temperatures below 40°F or above 100°F.
Important Notes
• Hornwort may shed needles during shipping or transition – this is normal
• New growth will quickly replace shed foliage
• Best growth occurs when floated freely
• Natural variation in stem length and fullness is expected
• Images are for reference only
🌱 Care & Resources
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Frequently Asked Questions
Hornwort is arguably the easiest aquarium plant in the hobby. It grows in virtually any light, any temperature (59-86°F), doesn’t need substrate, and grows 1-5 inches per week. It’s nearly impossible to kill.
Yes, Hornwort grows excellently as a floating plant. Many aquarists prefer it floating because it grows faster with direct light access and provides surface cover. You can also weight it down to plant it, but it has no true roots.
Yes, Hornwort is one of the best natural algae controllers. It grows so rapidly that it outcompetes algae for nutrients (nitrates, phosphates) and light. Many fishkeepers add Hornwort specifically to combat algae problems.
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