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what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 2:04 pm
by oceanmix
I'm setting up a 20 gallon tank for neon tetras and want some plants that'll make them pop. What's worked for you guys? I've got a sand substrate and moderate lighting.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 2:29 pm
by NanoAce
Neons look fantastic against dark green plants like Java Fern or Anubias. They're low maintenance and won't mess with your water params. I'd avoid stem plants if you're new, they can be finicky.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 2:54 pm
by squashy
Yep, Anubias is a solid pick. My neons love hiding in the leaves. Also, try some floating plants like Frogbit, gives 'em shade and makes the colors stand out.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 3:47 pm
by keyport
I got some Cryptocoryne Wendtii in my tank, and the neons dig it. It's chill, doesn't need much light, and spreads nice. Just don't move it around too much, it's kinda dramatic.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 4:37 pm
by furline
Dude, go for some Rotala Rotundifolia. The reds and greens make the neons glow. Just keep the light steady, or it'll go all leggy on ya.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 5:09 pm
by saltWaterFreak
NanoAce wrote: ↑Sun Aug 17, 2025 2:29 pm
Neons look fantastic against dark green plants like Java Fern or Anubias. They're low maintenance and won't mess with your water params. I'd avoid stem plants if you're new, they can be finicky.
Totally agree. Java Fern is bulletproof. Just tie it to driftwood and forget about it. Neons love the cover too.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 6:56 pm
by florabuzz
Try some Dwarf Sagittaria. It's easy, carpets nice, and the neons dart through it like it's a mini jungle. Plus, it's cheap and grows fast.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 8:13 pm
by duskbloom
I'd throw in some Ludwigia Repens. The red leaves make the neons' blue stripes pop. Just gotta trim it now and then, or it'll take over.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 9:38 pm
by finley1
My neons seem happiest with Vallisneria. It's tall, so they can swim through it, and it doesn't need much care.
Re: what plants look good with neons?
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 11:33 pm
by Riverwolf
squashy wrote: ↑Sun Aug 17, 2025 2:54 pm
Yep, Anubias is a solid pick. My neons love hiding in the leaves. Also, try some floating plants like Frogbit, gives 'em shade and makes the colors stand out.
That's a great combo. The shade from Frogbit really brings out their colors, and it's so calming to watch them dart in and out.