Start your planted tank the easy way! These 12 low-light plants are hardy, beautiful, and thrive without special lighting or CO₂ systems.
You're not alone. Many aquarists—especially those with standard LED hoods or budget fixtures—struggle to find plants that thrive in lower light levels. The good news? There are *many* stunning aquarium plants that not only tolerate low light but also flourish in it.
In this guide, we’ll explore 12 of the most beginner-friendly, low-maintenance, low-light aquarium plants that can thrive without CO₂ injection or fancy fertilizers.
What Are “Low-Light Aquarium Plants”? Low-light aquarium plants are species that:
- Require minimal light to photosynthesize effectively.
- Often grow slowly (less pruning needed). * Can survive with little or no added CO₂.
- Are tolerant of wide water conditions (ideal for beginners).
- Help improve water quality by absorbing nitrates.
These plants are ideal for low-tech aquariums, including standard-lit community tanks, betta or shrimp aquariums and nano aquascapes,
Why Choose Low-Light Plants? Before we get into the list, here’s why low-light plants make such a difference:
- Beginner-friendly: They’re forgiving and don’t “melt” easily.
- Low maintenance: Slow-growing means less trimming and lower nutrient demand.
- No algae nightmares: Unlike high-light setups, these reduce the risk of algae blooms.
- Budget compatible: No need for fancy equipment or CO₂ systems.
Beginner planted setups - Top 12 Low-Light Aquarium Plants That Are Easy to Keep:
1. Java Fern (*Microsorum pteropus*)
Why: A classic low-light champion, Java Fern thrives in minimal light and doesn’t require substrate. It grows best when tied to wood or rocks using thread or glue.
Light: Low
CO₂: Not needed
Placement: Midground or background
Care tip: Don’t bury the rhizome—it will rot.
2. Anubias (Barteri, Nana, Petite)
Why: One of the slowest-growing but hardiest aquarium plants. Anubias tolerates low light and can be tied to hardscape like Java Fern.
Light: Low
CO₂: Not required
Placement: Foreground to midground
Care tip: Leaves may collect algae—place in shaded tank zones.
3. Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri)
Why: Incredibly adaptable, Java Moss grows under nearly any condition. It forms lush green mats, ideal for shrimp, fry, and moss walls.
Light: Very low to moderate
CO₂: Optional
Placement: Driftwood, mesh, walls
Care tip: Trim regularly to prevent overgrowth and detritus build-up.
4. Cryptocoryne species (e.g. C. wendtii, C. lutea, *C. aponogetifolia)
Why: Crypts are rooted plants that adapt well to low-light conditions. They come in various colors and leaf shapes, from bronze to green.
Light: Low to moderate
CO₂: Not essential
Placement: Midground or background
Care tip: May experience “crypt melt” when first introduced—be patient; they bounce back.
5. Amazon Sword (Echinodorus bleheri)
Why: This larger rosette plant can still grow decently in low-light tanks, especially with a nutrient-rich substrate. Great for filling background space.
Light: Moderate (tolerates low)
CO₂: Helpful, but optional
Placement: Background
Care tip: Use root tabs for best results.
6. Water Wisteria (Hygrophila difformis)
Why: A fast grower even in low light, Water Wisteria can help prevent algae by outcompeting it for nutrients. It has finely textured, lacy leaves.
Light: Low to moderate
CO₂: Not needed
Placement: Midground or background
Care tip: Can grow rooted or floating.
7. Bacopa (Bacopa caroliniana)
Why: An easy stem plant with small round leaves and a vertical growth habit. Bacopa adds structure and works well in cooler tanks too.
Light: Low
CO₂: Optional
Placement: Background
Care tip: Trim the tops and replant to encourage bushier growth.
8. Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum)
Why: This plant floats or can be anchored. It doesn’t require substrate and grows quickly in low-tech setups, making it ideal for nutrient control.
Light: Low
CO₂: Not needed
Placement: Floating or background
Care tip: Can shed needles if lighting or nutrients suddenly change.
9. Salvinia and Floating Ferns
Why: Floating plants like Salvinia, Frogbit, or Duckweed thrive in low-light tanks and help reduce algae by shading the substrate.
Light: Low to moderate
CO₂: Not required
Placement: Floating
Care tip: Avoid clogging filters and ensure surface agitation.
10. Cryptocoryne Parva
Why:** A true low-light carpeting plant! It grows extremely slowly but creates a neat foreground look without high lighting or CO₂.
Light: Low
CO₂: Optional
Placement: Foreground
Care tip: Be patient—this one’s a slow burn.
11. Marimo Moss Balls (Aegagropila linnaei)
Why: These fuzzy green orbs are technically algae, not plants, but they’re a favorite in low-tech tanks and require *almost no care*.
Light: Very low
CO₂: Not needed
Placement: Foreground or decorative
Care tip: Gently roll them occasionally to maintain shape.
12. Helanthium tenellum (Pygmy Chain Sword)
Why: A fine-leaved carpeting plant that tolerates low to moderate light. Can gradually spread across the substrate with runners.
Light: Low to moderate
CO₂: Helpful but not mandatory
Placement: Foreground or midground
Care tip: Use root tabs for best growth in inert substrates.
🌿 Pro Tips for Low-Light Tank Success
- Use a timer: Consistent 6–8 hours of light prevents algae overgrowth.
- Add root tabs: Plants like swords and crypts benefit from nutrient-rich substrates or root tablets.
- Don’t overdo fertilizers: In low-light setups, excess nutrients can cause algae.
- Water movement matters: Ensure gentle flow to avoid dead zones and encourage oxygenation.
- Avoid burying rhizomes: Anubias and Java Fern must stay above substrate.
💡 Final Thoughts:
Embrace the Low-Tech Beauty. You *don’t* need CO₂ injection, high-watt LEDs, or deep pockets to grow lush aquarium plants. These 12 species thrive in low light, are perfect for beginners, and elevate your tank’s appearance while supporting fish and shrimp health. Whether you're just starting out or upgrading your aquascape, these plants will keep your tank green, clean, and low-stress.
Want a personalized low-light plant pack for your tank size? Drop a message on 81303 16186 and we’ll help you get started.
