Description: Vallisneria americana is an often kept species which is commercially available in various growth forms which differ in leaf length and leaf width. When purchasing such large-growing specimens, one has to consider that the leaves will float on the water surface in too-low tanks, and will thus considerably reduce the amount of light. The plants are most comfortable in medium-hard to hard alkaline water with strong circulation. Since they develop a strong root network, they should be set in a sandy substrate with a minimum depth of 7 cm. In the midground or background of the smaller aquarium, this short vallisneria makes a good alternative to the larger Vallisneria species. The leaves are highly zwisted and will reach between 15-20 cm. It is undemanding and should grow well in most conditions if given sufficent lighting.