Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum). Great cover for tadpoles

Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum)

Name: Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum)
SKU: CERDEMB5
Availability: OutOfStock

£10.00

Bunch of 5 strands – Oxygenenating plant

Hornwort is a fast-growing, submerged aquatic plant that keeps your pond clean and balanced by absorbing excess nutrients and curbing algae growth. Its dense, feathery foliage provides a safe haven for fish fry, amphibians, and invertebrates, boosting biodiversity. Easy to care for, Hornwort thrives year-round, sinking in winter to protect itself from frost. Perfect for new ponds, it’s a natural water purifier and wildlife sanctuary in one

Size

Clear

SKU: CERDEMB5 Categories: Oxygenators, Pond Plants Tags: Amphibian Friendly, Dappled Shade, Full Sun, Native, Oxygenator, Part-Shade

Hornwort is a versatile, submerged aquatic plant that not only enhances the beauty of your pond but also plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Known for its dense, feathery foliage, Hornwort provides excellent shelter and food for aquatic micro-invertebrates, while also acting as a natural water purifier. By absorbing excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, it helps prevent algae overgrowth, keeping your pond water clean and balanced.

This hardy plant is a haven for wildlife. Its intricate structure offers the perfect habitat for small fish, amphibians, and invertebrates. Fish fry can hide among its strands, boosting their chances of survival, while frogs and other amphibians use it as a safe spot to lay their eggs. Hornwort’s ability to promote biodiversity makes it an essential addition to any pond.

Hornwort is easy to care for and thrives in a variety of conditions. To maintain a healthy balance, allow it to grow until it fills about 30% of your pond volume. During the summer months, simply remove any clear stems by hand, leaving the dark green or olive-brown stems to continue thriving. In winter, Hornwort naturally sinks to the bottom of the pond, breaking down into small buds to protect itself from frost and ice.

For new ponds, we recommend a stocking rate of 2-3 portions of Hornwort per square metre of surface area to ensure optimal oxygenation and water quality.

Details

Native: Yes
Sun: Full Sun to Part Shade
Depth: Submerged in water column, no pot needed
Height max: N/A
Spread max: N/A – reduce as required

Care Instructions

Throw into the water and allow it to find it’s own place, or use weights to keep it in a certain spot. Reduce in late summer or early autumn to avoid disrupting wildlife if it has become too large.

Repotting Instructions

No pot required, place onto water surface and ensure roots are submerged.