Floating plants for aquariums? My top 5!

“Are floating fish tank plants a good idea?” you might wonder. I don’t see why not. In fact, there are even several advantages. In this article, I’ll list them all for you and, as a bonus, share my top 5 floating plants for aquariums. That way, you can start your floating aquatic plant journey from “pole position.”

What are the benefits of floating plants for aquariums?

In my opinion, floating fish tank plants are a must-have, especially when you see what they can do for your setup:

• They look absolutely amazing and give your aquarium a beautiful, natural “look and feel”;
• The roots of floating aquatic plants are not only great hiding spots or “nurseries” for fish, but they also create a stunning visual effect in your aquarium.
• They are generally very easy aquarium plants that require little aquarium fertilization.

Floating aquatic plants also contribute to the overall health of your fish and tank:

• They are excellent oxygen producers. Why does that matter? Read my article about oxygen in the aquarium.
• Floating plants are natural filters for your aquarium. They absorb waste products like organic phosphates and nitrates, thanks to their rapid growth.
• Floating aquatic plants create shade in your aquarium. They act like natural dimmers for your aquarium lighting. That also means they are a great ally in your fight against algae.

Convinced of the benefits of floating fish tank plants? Great! So, what are the best floating plants for aquariums? That’s where my top 5 comes in handy!

My top 5 floating plants for aquariums

Is this the ultimate list of the best floating plants for aquariums? Well, let’s just say these are my personal favorites after some trial & error. 🙂 If you’re starting with floating aquatic plants, this guide will help you avoid mistakes—like choosing duckweed and then struggling to get rid of it. Here we go!

Limnobium laevigatum

If this were a woman, we’d already be married! Limnobium laevigatum is gorgeous, fresh, and easy to care for. Admit it—that’s quite a combination. This floating plant grows quickly and has long, decorative roots. If you don’t like that, you can trim them without harming the plant.

• Light: high
• Temperature: 15 – 28°C
• pH: 6 – 8

Pistia stratiotes

A low-maintenance floating plant that’s also very affordable. Maybe not the most attractive, but that’s subjective. One thing to watch out for: make sure its leaves don’t get submerged, or it won’t last long.

• Light: medium
• Temperature: 22 – 30°C
• pH: 6 – 8

Riccia fluitans

A true floating aquatic plant! Unlike the others, Riccia fluitans grows without roots. Just keep an eye on floating debris that might clutter your tank. Other than that, Riccia fluitans is an easy, fast-growing plant that forms lush green islands on the surface.

• Light: medium
• Temperature: 20 – 30°C
• pH: 6 – 7

Ceratophyllum demersum

This is a stem plant that also does well as a floating plant. Ceratophyllum demersum grows extremely fast and thrives in cooler water. If you want floating fish tank plants to dim the light, this one might not be ideal since its fine leaves filter light only moderately.

• Light: medium
• Temperature: 15 – 28°C
• pH: 6 – 7

Vallisneria

Not technically a floating plant, but hey, I like to break the rules. If you let Vallisneria grow without trimming it, you get a floating plant effect as its long leaves drape over the surface. Perfect for creating shade in your tank.

• Light: low
• Temperature: 15 – 30°C (varies by species)
• pH: 6 – 8.5

Conclusion:

Floating plants are a fantastic addition to your aquarium. Try them out—you’ll see they help control algae while requiring minimal maintenance!