Fine Hornleaf
Fine Hornleaf. A formidable algae competitor!
This oxygen plant, also known as Unspined Hornleaf, is one of two species of Hornleaf naturally occurring in the Netherlands. Fine Hornleaf is an extremely fast-growing oxygen plant and is perfect for ponds. This rapid growth is due to the fact that Fine Hornleaf can stretch its cells. And that up to 10 centimetres a day. No surprise that floating algae and filamentous algae are not fans of these plants. In fact, this oxygen plant is a major competitor to them. This is mainly because they both need the same nutrients. Since Hornleaf grows quickly and draws its nutrients directly from the water column, it becomes more difficult for the algae to get enough substances and they will disappear in no time.
However, that is not the only helpful feature of this pond plant. For the plant is capable of making your pond even brighter than other pond plants. Through symbiosis with special micro-organisms, this species is able to break down various suspended matter. This benefits water clarity, which you will soon see reflected in your pond! This oxygen plant also produces a substance that prevents algae from growing properly. This is called allelopathy.
Fine Hornleaf Properties
- Sun/semi shade.
- Becomes up to 2 metres long.
- Floating plant, planting depth n/a.
- Pond depth up to approx. 1.5 metres.
- A nutrient medium is not necessary.
- This plant has few water quality requirements.
Frequently asked questions
What does fine hornwort look like?
Fine Hornleaf has a reddish-brown colour, unlike Coarse Hornleaf which is much greener. It is also much finer in texture and less brittle. It is a floating aquatic plant that floats just below the surface of the water. Sometime in autumn, depending on the weather, this aquatic plant goes into "hibernation". When it gets too cold to continue functioning, Fine Hornleaf turns brown and sinks to the bottom. Then, when it is warm enough again, the aquatic plant rises again from the water bottom and returns to the water surface to grow into new plants again. The aquatic plant will soon regain its beautiful reddish-brown colour there. In very deep ponds, deeper than 1.5 metres, Hornleaf may get too little light and not be able to come back up in spring.
What is the flowering time of fine hornwort?
Fine hornwort (Ceratophyllum submersum) flowers from May to September. The small, inconspicuous flowers are greenish in colour and are located below the surface of the water. As the flowers remain underwater, they are barely visible. The plant spreads mainly through vegetative growth, with new shoots emerging from existing stems.
Is fine hornwort a native aquatic plant?
Yes, fine hornwort is native to the Netherlands and is found in many still and slow-flowing waters, such as ditches, ponds and lakes. It is an important plant for the ecology of water bodies, as it provides oxygen in the water and shelter for small aquatic animals and fish.
How to plant fine hornwort?
This oxygen plant is a floating species that does not produce roots. It is therefore not necessary to plant this species, but it can go straight into the pond. This can be handy because it allows you to get a lot of oxygen plants to the pond.
The number of bunches of oxygen plants your pond needs is around 4-5 bunches per m³ of pond water. This gives the best results and reduces the growth of algae. The result is clear water!
How do I maintain fine hornwort?
Fine hornwort requires little maintenance, but it can grow quickly and overgrow other aquatic plants. Regular thinning or removal of excess plants helps control growth. This is especially important in summer, when the plant grows fastest. Since it contributes to water clarity by reducing algae, it is useful to maintain a healthy balance.
Is fine hornwort hardy?
Fine Hornleaf, unlike Coarse Hornleaf, does not produce winter buds but turns completely dark brown in winter. As soon as the temperature returns to normal, it turns bright green again. Both species are available from us.
What is the planting depth of fine hornwort?
Fine hornwort can grow at a depth of 30 cm to about 2 metres, depending on the clarity of the water. As the plant floats below the water surface, sufficient light penetration is important. In clear water, the plant can grow at greater depths, but in murky water it thrives better at shallower depths, allowing it to capture enough light for photosynthesis.
Buy Fine Hornleaf?
We have had good experiences with oxygen plants from De Vijvermeester. Fine Hornleaf is for sale via De Vijvermeester's webshop. Here you can find beautiful bunches of high quality.
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