Yellow Ivy – Live Aquarium Plant

Introduction: Yellow Ivy is a unique and vibrant addition to your aquarium, known for its striking yellow-green foliage that adds a splash of color and contrast to your underwater landscape. This plant is perfect for aquarists looking to introduce a lively, bright element to their tank.

Origin: Yellow Ivy is a cultivated variety, often selected for its bright, eye-catching coloration. While it shares some characteristics with terrestrial ivies, it is adapted to thrive in submerged conditions in aquariums.

Scientific Name: The scientific name of Yellow Ivy can vary depending on the specific variety, but it is often a type of Hedera species or a related cultivar adapted for aquatic environments.

Lighting Requirements: Yellow Ivy requires moderate to high lighting to maintain its vibrant yellow-green coloration. Providing 8 to 12 hours of light each day will help it thrive and prevent its leaves from turning green or fading.

Care Level: With a care level of 4 on a scale of 1 to 10, Yellow Ivy is moderately easy to care for. It is suitable for aquarists with some experience, as it requires stable water conditions and adequate lighting to flourish.

Preferred Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 68°F to 78°F (20°C to 26°C)
• pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
• GH Level (General Hardness): 3 to 8 dGH
• KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 6 dKH

Placement: Yellow Ivy is versatile in placement and can be used as a midground or background plant in your aquarium. Its trailing vines and bright leaves make it an excellent choice for creating a focal point or adding a pop of color amidst greener plants.

Growth Rate: This plant has a moderate to fast growth rate. Regular pruning is recommended to control its spread and maintain its shape, especially in smaller tanks where it can quickly dominate the space.

CO2 and Fertiliser: Supplemental CO2 can enhance the growth and coloration of Yellow Ivy, though it is not strictly necessary. Regular fertilization, particularly with nutrients like iron, will help maintain its vibrant color and support healthy growth.

Potential Problems: Yellow Ivy is generally hardy but may suffer from fading or yellowing if not provided with sufficient light or nutrients. Ensure stable water conditions and consistent care to keep it vibrant and healthy.

Compatible Fishes: Yellow Ivy pairs well with a variety of peaceful fish species. Suitable tankmates include:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Guppies
• Corydoras Catfish
• Shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp)

Other Suitable Plants: To create a balanced and visually appealing aquascape, consider pairing Yellow Ivy with these complementary plants:

• Anubias species
• Java Fern
• Ludwigia species
• Rotala species
• Cryptocoryne species

Tropical or Cold Water? Yellow Ivy thrives in tropical water conditions, with a stable temperature range between 68°F to 78°F (20°C to 26°C) being ideal for its growth.

What Fish Can Eat It? Yellow Ivy is not commonly eaten by most aquarium fish. However, larger herbivorous species might nibble on its leaves. In a well-maintained community tank, it generally remains safe from being eaten.

A Fun Fact: Yellow Ivy is often used in aquascaping not just for its color but also for its versatility. Its trailing vines can be trained around driftwood or rocks, creating a natural, cascading effect that adds dimension and interest to your aquascape. This ability to adapt and enhance the visual dynamics of a tank makes it a favorite among creative aquarists.