25 Beautiful Aquarium Plants That Do Not Need Substrate

If you are looking for some beautiful aquarium plants that do not need substrate, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will take a look at 25 different aquarium plants that look great and do not require substrate to grow.

1. Java Fern (Microsorum Pteropus)

The Java Fern is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not require a substrate. The Java Fern has long, dark green leaves that can grow up to 12 inches in length. This plant is relatively easy to care for and is a good choice for beginner aquarists. It is a popular plant for aquascaping because it can be attached to driftwood or rocks.

1.
1.
1.
1.

2. Java Fern Windelov (Microsorum pteropus “Windelov”)

The Java Fern Windelov is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. This plant can grow to be about 12 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The Java Fern Windelov is a very easy plant to care for and is a great plant for beginners. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and is a member of the fern family. This plant can also live in an aquarium that does not have a lot of light, but it will not grow as well. The Java Fern Windelov does best in an aquarium that has a lot of light. The Java Fern Windelov has long, thin leaves that are dark green in color.

2.
2.

3. Anubias Barteri

It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 12 inches in height. Anubias barteri is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. Anubias barteri is a great plant for beginners because it is easy to care for. Anubias barteri is a great plant for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. This plant can be found in many different colors, including green, brown, and black.

3.
3.

4. Anubias Nana

Anubias nana is a great plant for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 12 inches in height. This plant can be grown in both low and high light conditions. Anubias nana is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. Anubias nana is a great plant for beginners because it is easy to care for.

4.
4.

5. Bucephalandra

Bucephalandra is a genus of aquatic plants that are native to Borneo. Bucephalandra can be found growing on rocks, tree trunks, and even on the leaves of other plants. The plants in this genus are epiphytes, which means they grow on other plants or objects in the wild.

Bucephalandra plants can range in size from a few inches to a few feet. The plants in this genus are known for their beautiful leaves, which can be various colors, including green, brown, red, and purple. The leaves are often variegated, meaning they have more than one color.

The plants are also found in shady areas, as they do not do well in direct sunlight. This is because the plants need a lot of water to survive. In the wild, bucephalandra plants are often found in fast-moving streams.

Second, the plant needs a lot of water, so make sure you have a good filtration system in place. If you are thinking about adding a bucephalandra plant to your aquarium, there are a few things you should know. Third, the plant does not do well in direct sunlight, so you will need to provide some shade for it. First, the plant does not need any substrate, as it is an epiphyte.

5.
5.

6. Water Lettuce

It has been introduced to many other parts of the world, where it is often considered an invasive species. Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) is a floating aquatic plant that is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

It has long, slender leaves that are often tinged with red or purple. The plant produces small, white flowers that float on the surface of the water. Water lettuce is a fast-growing plant that can quickly cover the surface of a pond or other body of water.

Water lettuce is often used in aquaculture and aquariums because it provides shelter and food for fish and other aquatic animals. It is also used in bioremediation projects to help remove excess nutrients from water bodies.

6.
6.

7. Duckweed

Duckweed is a floating aquatic plant that is found in ponds and lakes all over the world. It has small, round leaves that are arranged in a rosette pattern. Duckweed is a fast-growing plant and can double its population in as little as two days.

Duckweed also does not require special lighting or fertilizers. Duckweed is an excellent plant for beginners because it does not require a substrate. It can be attached to rocks or driftwood with fishing line or a rubber band.

Duckweed is a great plant for absorbing excess nutrients from the water. It can help to keep a pond or aquarium clean and clear. Duckweed can also be used as food for fish and other aquatic animals.

7.
7.

8. Amazon Frogbit

The Amazon Frogbit is a floating plant that has round, dark green leaves. This plant is native to the Amazon River Basin and can be found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. The Amazon Frogbit is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. This plant is easy to care for and does not require special attention. The leaves are covered in tiny white hairs that give the plant a velvety appearance. The Amazon Frogbit can grow up to 12 inches in length and produces small, white flowers.

8.
8.

9. Water Spangles (Salvinia natans)

They have delicate, green leaves that are arranged in pairs along the stem. Water spangles can grow up to 12 inches in length and have a lifespan of 2-3 years. Water spangles (Salvinia natans) are floating aquatic ferns that are native to South America.

Water spangles are fast-growing and can quickly cover the surface of an aquarium. Water spangles are easy to care for and do not require a substrate. They may need to be trimmed back occasionally to prevent them from taking over the tank. They can be kept in a variety of aquariums, including those with goldfish and other peaceful fish.

9.
9.

10. Java Moss

Java moss can be attached to rocks, driftwood, or other decorations in the aquarium. Java moss is a popular plant for aquariums because it does not need substrate to grow. It is a fast-growing plant that provides cover for fish and shrimp. Java moss is also a good plant for breeding fish.

10.
10.
10.
10.

11. Christmas Moss

Christmas moss is a great plant for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. Christmas moss is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. It can be attached to rocks or driftwood and will grow in a variety of water conditions.

11.
11.

12. Floating Crystalwort

Crystalwort is a beautiful floating plant that does not require substrate. Crystalwort is easy to care for and is a great addition to any aquarium. It is perfect for aquascaping and creates a stunning visual effect in the aquarium.

12.
12.

13. Water Weeds (Elodea)

They are easy to care for and do not need substrate. They can also help to oxygenate the water. Water weeds are one of the most popular aquarium plants. Water weeds are a great way to add greenery to your aquarium.

13.
13.

14. Hornwort

Hornwort is fast-growing and can reach up to two feet in length. It can be left floating or anchored to driftwood or rocks. Hornwort is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. It is a great plant for beginners because it is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.

14.
14.

15. Cabomba

Cabomba is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. This plant is perfect for beginners because it is easy to care for and does not require much maintenance. Cabomba can be found in many different colors, including green, red, and yellow. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 18 inches in height.

15.
15.

16. Moneywort (Bacopa monnieri)

It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 12 inches in height. This plant is also a great choice for aquariums with fish that like to nibble on plants, as moneywort is not easily damaged. Bacopa monnieri, or moneywort, is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. Moneywort is a great plant for beginners because it is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.

16.
16.

17. Brazilian Pennywort

It has round, green leaves that can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. Brazilian pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) is a fast-growing, floating plant that is native to Brazil. Brazilian pennywort can be found in most pet stores that sell aquarium plants.

This plant does not need substrate to grow. It can be attached to rocks or driftwood with fishing line or thread. Brazilian pennywort will also grow in free-floating form. This plant is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.

It is also a good plant for fish tanks with high levels of nitrates and ammonia. Brazilian pennywort is a great plant for beginners. This plant can help to improve water quality and clarity.

18. Dwarf Ambulia

The leaves are green with a purple hue and have a glossy texture. It is a low-growing plant that has small, oval-shaped leaves. Dwarf Ambulia is a fast-growing plant and can reach up to 8 inches in height. Dwarf Ambulia is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not require a substrate. It is a great plant for beginners and can be used in both freshwater and saltwater aquariums.

18.
18.

19. Dwarf Hygro

The Dwarf hygro does best in low to moderate light and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. If you are looking for a plant that does not need a substrate, the Dwarf hygro is a great option. This plant is a great choice for beginners, as it is relatively easy to care for. This plant is native to South America and can be found in a variety of colors, including green, red, and brown.

19.
19.

20. Water Wisteria (Hygrophila difformis)

Water Wisteria is a great plant for beginners because it is easy to care for. It is a versatile plant that can be grown in a variety of aquarium setups. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 18 inches in height. Water Wisteria prefers a well-lit aquarium with a moderate water flow. This plant can be propagated by cuttings. Water Wisteria (Hygrophila difformis) is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not require substrate.

20.
20.

21. Ludwigia Repens

Ludwigia Repens is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. Ludwigia Repens is a great plant for beginners because it is easy to care for. This plant can be found in many different colors, including green, red, and purple. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 12 inches in height. Ludwigia Repens is a great plant for adding color and interest to your aquarium.

22. Rotala Rotundifolia

Rotala rotundifolia is a great plant for beginner aquarists. This plant is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. Rotala rotundifolia is a popular aquarium plant that does not require substrate to grow. This plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in the summer. Rotala rotundifolia is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 30 cm in height.

22.
22.

23. Rotala Indica

It has bright green leaves and produces white flowers. Rotala Indica is a popular plant for aquascaping because of its beautiful appearance and easy care. Rotala Indica is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 30 cm in height.

23.
23.

24. Ludwigia Arcuata

Ludwigia arcuata is a great addition to any aquarium. This plant can be found in many different colors, including green, red, and purple. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 12 inches in height. Ludwigia arcuata is a beautiful aquarium plant that does not need substrate. Ludwigia arcuata is a great plant for beginners because it is easy to care for.

24.
24.

25. Marimo Moss Balls

Marimo moss balls are easy to care for and do not require a substrate to live. They are often used as a decoration in aquariums and can be found in a variety of colors. Marimo moss balls are a type of algae that forms into a ball shape.

Watch this video

Aquarium plants are a beautiful addition to any home, and they can help to create a healthy environment for your fish. There are a variety of plants that you can choose from, and many of them do not require a substrate in order to grow.

These plants are all easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They are also relatively low-maintenance, so you won’t have to spend a lot of time caring for them. Some of the best plants for aquariums include Anubias, Java Fern, and Hornwort.

If you’re looking for a plant that will add some color to your aquarium, you may want to consider adding a Red Ludwigia. This plant is a great option for beginners, as it is easy to care for and does not require a substrate.

No matter what type of plant you choose, be sure to do your research to ensure that it will be a good fit for your aquarium. With a little bit of planning, you can easily add some beautiful plants to your tank that will help to create a healthy and vibrant environment for your fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the benefits of having aquarium plants that don’t need substrate?

Aquarium plants that don’t need substrate are easier to care for and can save you money in the long run. They also don’t require as much maintenance, which means you can enjoy your aquarium more.

2. What are some of the most popular aquarium plants that don’t need substrate?

Some of the most popular aquarium plants that don’t need substrate include Java fern, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne. These plants are all easy to care for and add beauty to your aquarium.

3. How do I care for aquarium plants that don’t need substrate?

Caring for aquarium plants that don’t need substrate is easy. Just make sure to provide them with the proper lighting and water conditions. Most of these plants are very hardy and can tolerate a wide range of conditions.

4. What are the best lighting conditions for aquarium plants that don’t need substrate?

Aquarium plants that don’t need substrate do best in low to moderate lighting. They can also tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, so you can experiment to find what works best for your plants.

5. What are the best water conditions for aquarium plants that don’t need substrate?

Aquarium plants that don’t need substrate do best in freshwater aquariums. They can also tolerate a wide range of water conditions, so you can experiment to find what works best for your plants.

Final thoughts

Aquarium plants are a beautiful addition to any home, and they can thrive without the need for a substrate. These plants are easy to care for and will provide your aquarium with the oxygen it needs to stay healthy.