Water
Maintain consistently moist conditions. For aquariums, ensure stable water parameters. For ponds, keep water levels adequate.
Also known as Floating Spurge · Red-Root Floater
Phyllanthus fluitans, the Red Root Floater, is a popular aquatic plant known for its vibrant red undersides and floating habit, adding color to aquariums and ponds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Requires bright light for best coloration.
100% intensity
Direct sunlight is beneficial.
Keep consistently moist and submerged or floating.
100% intensity
Essential for aquatic life.
Does not require soil; it absorbs nutrients directly from the water column.
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures between 20-28°C.
100% intensity
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Aquatic, Indoor, Greenhouse
50% intensity
Benefits from nutrient-rich water.
100% intensity
Use liquid fertilizer sparingly if needed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Maintain consistently moist conditions. For aquariums, ensure stable water parameters. For ponds, keep water levels adequate.
Pruning is generally not required. If the plant becomes too dense, excess growth can be removed by simply thinning out stems. Trimmed pieces can be replanted.
Easily propagated by cuttings. Simply take a healthy stem cutting and float it in water; it will quickly root and grow.
This plant is not typically repotted as it is a floating aquatic. If grown in a container, ensure the container remains filled with water.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Red Root Floater (Phyllanthus fluitans)
Where Red Root Floater (Phyllanthus fluitans) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Phyllanthaceae |
| Genus | Phyllanthus |
| Species | Phyllanthus fluitans |
Similar in genus Phyllanthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data