{"title":"Background Plants","description":"\u003cp\u003eExplore our high quality selection of background plants.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"hygrophila-odora-tropica-invitro-plant","title":"Hygrophila Odora Tropica Invitro Plant","description":"\u003cp\u003eHygrophila Odora Tropica In Vitro - Fast-Growing Background Aquarium Plant for Planted Tanks\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHygrophila odora Tropica In Vitro is a fast-growing, sterile tissue culture plant ideal for background planting in aquascapes. Known for its bright green foliage and rapid growth, it helps establish balance and absorb excess nutrients in new tanks. Perfect for both beginners and experienced aquascapers, especially in clean, pest-free setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eKEY BENEFITS\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e100% pest-free and algae-free tissue culture plant\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eFast growth helps stabilise new aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eBright green leaves create a fresh, natural background\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eExcellent nutrient absorber, helping reduce algae risk\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eEasy to grow in a wide range of conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eMultiple plantlets per pot for wider coverage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIDEAL FOR\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eBeginner-friendly planted tanks\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eNature-style and Dutch aquascapes\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eBackground planting in medium to large aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eShrimp tanks and sensitive setups\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eNew tank setups needing fast-growing plants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eCARE SNAPSHOT\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDifficulty: Easy\u003cbr\u003eLighting: Low to medium\u003cbr\u003eCO2: Optional\u003cbr\u003eGrowth: Fast\u003cbr\u003ePlacement: Background\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHygrophila odora is a reliable, fast-growing stem plant that brings vibrant green colour and energy to the background of an aquarium. Supplied in Tropica's In Vitro format, it is grown in sterile conditions, ensuring it arrives free from pests, algae, and contaminants.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe plant develops upright stems with elongated green leaves, forming dense clusters when trimmed regularly. Its rapid growth makes it especially useful in new aquariums, where it helps absorb excess nutrients and reduce the likelihood of algae outbreaks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn aquascaping, Hygrophila odora is typically used as a background plant to create fullness and depth. It can also be shaped through trimming to suit more structured layouts, making it versatile for both natural and more formal aquascapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat makes this plant particularly valuable is its ease of care combined with strong growth. It adapts quickly to a range of conditions and provides immediate visual impact while supporting overall tank stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs with most tissue culture plants, a short transition period is normal after planting, but it quickly establishes and begins active growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSPECIFICATIONS\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eScientific name: Hygrophila odora\u003cbr\u003eCommon name: Hygrophila odora\u003cbr\u003eOrigin: Southeast Asia\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 20-40 cm\u003cbr\u003ePlacement: Background\u003cbr\u003eLighting: Low to medium\u003cbr\u003eCO2: Optional\u003cbr\u003eTemperature: 22-28¡C\u003cbr\u003epH: 6.0-7.5\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlanting\u003cbr\u003eRemove from the pot and rinse off all nutrient gel thoroughly. Divide into small portions and plant individual stems into substrate using tweezers. Leave space between stems for light and flow.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTrimming\u003cbr\u003eTrim regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from becoming too tall or leggy. Replant cuttings to create a denser background.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeeding\u003cbr\u003eA nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial, but Hygrophila odora also absorbs nutrients from the water column. Supplement with liquid fertilisers for best results.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCO2 Notes\u003cbr\u003eCO2 is not required but will enhance growth speed and density. Ideal for both low-tech and high-tech setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFAQ SECTION\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat does In Vitro mean?\u003cbr\u003eIt means the plant is grown in sterile laboratory conditions, free from pests, algae, and contaminants.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIs this plant suitable for beginners?\u003cbr\u003eYes, it is very easy to grow and adapts well to a wide range of conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow fast does it grow?\u003cbr\u003eIt is a fast-growing stem plant, especially in nutrient-rich environments.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDo I need CO2 for this plant?\u003cbr\u003eNo, CO2 is optional, though it will improve growth and density.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIs it safe for shrimp tanks?\u003cbr\u003eYes, being tissue culture, it is completely safe for shrimp and sensitive setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow do I keep it bushy?\u003cbr\u003eRegular trimming and replanting of stems will promote dense, compact growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePAIRS WELL WITH\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eAquasoil substrates for strong root development\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eLiquid fertilisers for consistent nutrient supply\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eCO2 systems for faster growth and density\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eBackground plants like Rotala species for contrast\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eForeground plants like Monte Carlo or Hydrocotyle tripartita\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eNatural hardscape for structured layouts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"byrkleyaquatics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53186777186642,"sku":"5703249000767","price":7.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1066\/3437\/9602\/files\/289c6f_b3f7ab6a28a44b4786a6bc21ac613072_mv2_6dd879e9-abcf-4c39-ab23-7a3382df9d52.jpg?v=1776092086"},{"product_id":"rotala-rotundifolia-blood-red-1-2-grow","title":"Rotala Rotundifolia 'Blood Red' 1-2-Grow","description":"\u003cp\u003eRotala Rotundifolia Blood Red In Vitro - Vibrant Red Background Aquarium Plant for Aquascaping\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRotala rotundifolia 'Blood Red' In Vitro is a premium tissue culture aquarium plant known for its intense red coloration and fine, elegant leaves. Grown in sterile conditions, it arrives pest-free and ideal for high-end aquascapes and shrimp tanks. Under strong lighting and CO2, it develops rich red tones and dense background growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eKEY BENEFITS\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eDeep red coloration under high light creates strong visual impact\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e100% pest-free and algae-free tissue culture plant\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eFine leaves provide soft, natural texture in the background\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eFast-growing stems ideal for shaping and layout control\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003ePerfect for creating contrast against green plants\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eMultiple plantlets per pot for wider planting coverage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eIDEAL FOR\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eNature-style and Dutch aquascapes\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eHigh-tech planted tanks with CO2\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eBackground planting in medium to large aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eShrimp tanks and sensitive ecosystems\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eAquascapers aiming for bold colour contrast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eCARE SNAPSHOT\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDifficulty: Moderate\u003cbr\u003eLighting: High\u003cbr\u003eCO2: Recommended\u003cbr\u003eGrowth: Fast\u003cbr\u003ePlacement: Background\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRotala rotundifolia 'Blood Red' is one of the most sought-after red stem plants in aquascaping, valued for its ability to develop intense red hues under the right conditions. The In Vitro version ensures a clean start, free from algae, pests, and contaminants.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis plant features slender stems with small, rounded leaves that grow densely when trimmed regularly. As it matures, it forms vibrant, bushy groups that sway gently in the current, adding movement and softness to the background of an aquascape.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn layout design, it is typically used as a background plant where it creates depth and contrast behind rocks, wood, or midground species. Its bright red tones stand out particularly well against green carpeting plants and darker hardscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat makes 'Blood Red' unique is its ability to achieve strong red coloration without requiring extreme conditions compared to other red plants. With stable CO2, high lighting, and proper nutrients, it becomes a dominant visual feature in any planted tank.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs with most tissue culture plants, there may be a short transition period as it adapts to submerged conditions, but it quickly establishes and begins active growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSPECIFICATIONS\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eScientific name: Rotala rotundifolia 'Blood Red'\u003cbr\u003eCommon name: Blood Red Rotala\u003cbr\u003eOrigin: Southeast Asia\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 20-40 cm\u003cbr\u003ePlacement: Background\u003cbr\u003eLighting: High\u003cbr\u003eCO2: Recommended\u003cbr\u003eTemperature: 22-28¡C\u003cbr\u003epH: 5.5-7.5\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCARE GUIDE\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlanting\u003cbr\u003eRemove from the pot and rinse off all nutrient gel thoroughly. Divide into small portions and plant individual stems into aquasoil using tweezers. Space stems slightly to allow light and flow between them.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTrimming\u003cbr\u003eTrim frequently to encourage bushy, dense growth. Replant cut tops to thicken the group and maintain a full background.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeeding\u003cbr\u003eRequires a nutrient-rich substrate and consistent liquid fertilisation. Iron supplementation helps intensify red coloration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCO2 Notes\u003cbr\u003eCO2 injection is strongly recommended. Stable CO2 levels are key to achieving vibrant red tones and preventing leggy growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFAQ SECTION\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat makes this different from regular Rotala rotundifolia?\u003cbr\u003e'Blood Red' develops much deeper red coloration, especially under high lighting and CO2.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDoes it always stay red?\u003cbr\u003eColour depends on lighting, CO2, and nutrients. Lower light may result in more orange or green tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIs it suitable for beginners?\u003cbr\u003eIt can be grown by beginners, but best results come from stable, high-tech setups.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow fast does it grow?\u003cbr\u003eIt is a fast-growing stem plant, especially under strong lighting and CO2.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIs it safe for shrimp tanks?\u003cbr\u003eYes, the In Vitro format ensures it is completely pest-free and safe for shrimp.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow do I get it bushy?\u003cbr\u003eRegular trimming and replanting of tops will encourage dense, compact growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePAIRS WELL WITH\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eAquasoil substrates for strong root development\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003ePressurised CO2 systems for colour and growth\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eLiquid fertilisers with iron supplementation\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eGreen carpeting plants like Monte Carlo or Hydrocotyle tripartita\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eMidground plants such as Pogostemon helferi\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003eHardscape layouts with stone or driftwood for contrast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Tropica","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53186792227154,"sku":"5703249000743","price":7.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1066\/3437\/9602\/files\/289c6f_ea0a07e0acd34ed58ef65b0487d9ed27_mv2_7aca74b2-fc20-40c0-ba66-e72a3d854a4f.jpg?v=1776092195"}],"url":"https:\/\/byrkleyaquatics.co.uk\/collections\/background-plants.oembed","provider":"Byrkley Aquatics","version":"1.0","type":"link"}