Cryptocoryne alba
July 21st, 2009
Cryptocoryne alba is a species from southern Sri Lanka. Originally described in 1975, the name ‘alba’ was given due to the pure white spathe on the type specimen. However, it was soon discovered that there is quite a bit of variation with the color of the spathe as well as the leaves. The spathes can be anywhere from pure white, yellow, rose and even deep red/purple.
Unlike most Sri Lankan cryptocorynes, this plant proves to be a little bit of a challenge in cultivation. Growing in acidic soil with water low in carbonates, the plant creates clusters of daughter plants near the mother.