Hygrophila Sunset

Hygrophila ‘Sunset’ (often sold as Hygrophila polysperma ‘Rosanervig’) is a striking and fast-growing stem plant known for its unique pink veins and variegated leaves. Native to Asia, this cultivated variety has become very popular in planted aquariums because it adds bright color without requiring extremely demanding conditions.

The leaves are typically light green to yellowish with distinct pink to reddish veins, and under stronger lighting the plant can develop soft pink hues across the entire leaf. When grown in groups, Hygrophila Sunset creates a vibrant, bushy cluster that contrasts beautifully with darker green plants.

Care Requirements

• Lighting: Moderate to High (stronger light enhances pink coloration)

• Temperature: 22–28 °C

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Placement: Midground to Background

Growth & Maintenance

Like many Hygrophila species, this plant grows quickly and responds well to frequent trimming. Cutting the stems encourages branching, creating a thicker and fuller plant group. Trimmed tops can simply be replanted in the substrate to propagate new plants.

While it can grow in lower-tech aquariums, good lighting and nutrients will greatly improve coloration. CO₂ is optional but can help produce faster growth and brighter colors.

Aquascaping Use

Hygrophila Sunset is great for:

• Adding pink and variegated tones to planted aquariums

• Midground or background color contrast

• Fast-growing plant mass for nutrient control

• Filling in aquascapes quickly

A colorful, fast-growing stem plant prized for its distinctive pink-veined leaves that add vibrant contrast to freshwater planted aquariums.