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Crinum natans is a striking bulb plant native to African rivers and streams. Its long, flowing, ribbon-like leaves add a dramatic touch to planted aquariums. Here’s everything you need to know about this unique aquatic plant.

Common Names: Floating Crinum, African Onion Plant, River Lily
Scientific Name: Crinum natans
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Origin: West and Central Africa (rivers and streams in Nigeria, Cameroon, etc.)

Appearance:

• Leaves: Long, ribbon-like, wavy or crinkled, dark green, can grow up to 4 feet (120 cm) in length.

• Growth Form: Submerged aquatic plant, but can grow emersed in shallow water.

• Root System: Bulbous base (similar to an onion), with thick, white roots.

• Flowers: Rare in aquariums, but produces beautiful white or pink lily-like flowers when grown emersed.

Crinum natans Care Tips

1. Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (larger is better due to its size).

• Lighting: Moderate to high (but can adapt to low light, grows slower).

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate (clay or root tabs recommended).

• Water Flow: Prefers gentle to moderate flow (mimics its natural river habitat).

2. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–15 dGH)

3. Planting & Maintenance:

• Planting: Bury the bulb about halfway into the substrate (do not fully cover it to prevent rot).

• Fertilization: Benefits from root tabs or liquid fertilizers (iron-rich fertilizers enhance leaf color).

• Pruning: Remove old, yellowing leaves at the base. New leaves will grow from the center.

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate (patience is key).

4. Compatibility:

• Fish: Safe with most community fish (tetras, gouramis, cichlids).

• Inverts: Shrimp and snails won’t harm it.

• Avoid: Plant-nibbling fish (like goldfish or some cichlids).

5. Propagation:

• Produces bulb offsets (pups) that can be separated and replanted once they develop roots.

• Rarely flowers underwater but may produce seeds if grown emersed.

Final Notes:

• Hardy but slow-growing – don’t expect rapid growth.

• Leaves may melt initially when moved to a new tank but will regrow if the bulb is healthy.

• Great for midground or background in larger aquariums.