Tonina Fluviatilis is a beautiful stem plant that adds decorative pops of character to a planted tank. In the same family as Eriocaulon, it's known for being finicky and is not a beginner's plant — it requires moderately soft water with a mildly acidic substrate, a lot of light (1+ watt per liter), and CO2 injection. A good supply of iron and micronutrients is important, and nitrate/phosphate levels must never be allowed to fall to zero.
Tonina grows mostly vertically, but with enough light it will send out lateral shoots — make sure it gets enough light, as many other plants will outpace it in growth. To propagate, cut offshoots no longer than 2" and replant in substrate. Its fresh green leaves make a great accent for the middle or background of an aquarium, and it's a good option for Dutch-style tanks.
| Skill Level |
Expert |
| CO2 |
Required |
| Requires Aqua Soil |
Recommended — mildly acidic substrate preferred |
| Type |
Stem |
| Max Height |
1-4" |
| Placement |
Midground to background |
| Light Level |
Medium to High, 1+ watt/liter equivalent (approx. 80-150 PAR) |
| Origin |
Central/South America, West Indies, Mexico |
| Other |
Remove tissue culture gel before planting by rinsing or squeezing off under water. |
Care & Planting: Cut offshoots (no longer than 2") and replant in substrate to propagate.
A note on appearance: Many stem plants, including this one, are harvested in their above-water (emersed) form, and the photo may not reflect how it looks once fully adjusted to life underwater. Leaf shape and coloration commonly shift as the plant transitions to submersed growth — don't be surprised if new growth looks different from what arrived in your order. Give it a few weeks to acclimate before judging its final look.
