Page 1 of 2

best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 8:12 pm
by goby99
I've been trying to find the best high-light plants for my 20-gallon tank. Currently running a Finnex Planted+ 24/7, CO2 injection, and EI dosing. Any recommendations for plants that thrive under these conditions?

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 9:43 pm
by Flarex
In my experience, Rotala Rotundifolia and Ludwigia Super Red do really well under high light. They color up nicely and grow fast with CO2. What's your substrate? That can make a big difference.

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 11:08 pm
by SeaBreeze8
I've had great luck with Pogostemon Erectus. It's a bit finicky at first but once it takes off, it's stunning. Just make sure your nitrates aren't too low, or it'll stunt. Also, what's your photoperiod?

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Wed May 28, 2025 11:19 pm
by wavereed
Flarex wrote: Wed May 28, 2025 9:43 pm In my experience, Rotala Rotundifolia and Ludwigia Super Red do really well under high light. They color up nicely and grow fast with CO2. What's your substrate? That can make a big difference.
Yep, seconding Rotala. It's a beast under high light. I'm using ADA Amazonia and it's been a game-changer. How often are you dosing EI?

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 1:11 am
by village
If you're looking for something different, try Hygrophila Pinnatifida. It's got this unique leaf shape and grows like crazy with enough light. Just watch out for algae if your CO2 isn't consistent.

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 1:36 am
by Aquatix
I'd throw in a vote for Alternanthera Reineckii. It's a bit slower but the reds are unreal under high light. What's your water temp? I've found it does best around 78°F.

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 2:13 am
by cleverkit
Dude, if you wanna go all out, try some Monte Carlo carpet. It's gonna need trimming like crazy but looks dope. Just make sure your CO2 is dialed in or it'll melt on ya.

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 3:37 am
by goby99
Thanks for all the suggestions! I'm using Fluval Stratum and dosing EI every other day. Photoperiod is 8 hours. Gonna try the Rotala and Ludwigia first.

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 3:43 am
by rividewave
What about Cryptocoryne? I heard they're good.

Re: best high-light plant Experiences

Posted: Thu May 29, 2025 5:16 am
by Flarex
rividewave wrote: Thu May 29, 2025 3:43 am What about Cryptocoryne? I heard they're good.
Crypts are more low-light plants. They'll melt under high light unless you've got them shaded by taller plants.