Compact Hygrophila (Hygrophila corymbosa 'Compact') - Potted

Compact Hygrophila (Hygrophila corymbosa 'Compact', also sold as 'Kompakt') is a dwarf, slow-growing form of the classic Temple Plant. It stays low and bushy with sturdy stems and broad, dark green leaves that grow in tight whorls, often blushing bronze toward the tips under strong light. Because it grows compact and slow, it makes an easy, low-maintenance midground that does not need constant trimming.

This plant arrives potted in rock wool, ready to plant. Browse the rest of our live aquarium plants to round out your aquascape.

Care Guide

• Care level: Easy to moderate
• Lighting: Moderate to high; brighter light keeps it tight and brings out bronze tones
• Placement: Midground; an excellent low bush in front of taller stems
• Growth: Slow and compact; far less trimming than standard Hygrophila
• CO2: Not required, but produces denser, more colorful growth
• Substrate: Roots best in a nutrient-rich substrate; this heavy root feeder loves root tabs
• Propagation: Trim a side shoot or top and replant; roots readily from the nodes

Specifications

Companion Plants

Compact Hygrophila anchors the midground and pairs well with contrasting textures:

• Hygrophila Pinnatifida for a lacier, bronzy companion
• Cryptocoryne wendtii 'Bronze' for warm low color beside it
• Amazon Sword as a tall green backdrop

Recommended Supplies

• Seachem Flourish Tabs root tabs for this heavy root feeder
• Aquarium Co-Op Easy Potassium for full, healthy leaves
• CaribSea PyroFlora Substrate for a planted-tank base
• More live aquarium plants

FAQ

How is this different from regular Hygrophila?
This is the dwarf 'Compact' cultivar. It stays shorter and grows much more slowly than standard Hygrophila corymbosa, so it holds a tidy midground shape with far less trimming.

Does it need CO2?
No. It grows without CO2 under moderate to high light. CO2 and stronger light just make it denser, more compact, and more colorful.

Why are the leaf tips turning bronze?
That is a good sign. Under strong light and good nutrients the new growth takes on bronze and reddish tones, which is part of this plant's appeal.

Is it safe for fish and shrimp?
Yes. It is non-toxic and works well in community, betta, and shrimp tanks.