Ammannia pedicellata
Ammannia honoring Paul Ammann (1634–1691), German botanist and professor at the University of Leipzig. pedicellata from Latin pedicellus (small stalk), referring to the distinctly stalked (pedicellate) flowers.
Golden Nesaea
Lythraceae
Distinguishing Features
- Opposite to whorled , lanceolate leaves, golden-green to orange-red depending on light and nutrients
- Leaves sessile and clasping , 2–4 cm long, with smooth margins and visible midrib
- Stems erect, somewhat stiff, square in cross-section (characteristic of Lythraceae)
- Under high light and iron, develops intense golden-orange to copper-red coloration
- Growth habit upright and columnar, 20–40 cm tall, moderate branching
- Small pinkish flowers in leaf axils (emersed form)
Habitat
Seasonal tropical wetlands, rice paddies, and shallow freshwater margins. Grows emersed or submersed in warm, nutrient-rich water.
Notes
Sold in the aquarium trade as 'Nesaea pedicellata' or 'Nesaea sp. Golden' — the genus Nesaea has been largely synonymized with Ammannia. A moderately demanding aquarium plant that rewards high light and CO2 with striking golden-orange coloration. Without strong light, remains pale green and may become leggy. Requires good iron and micronutrient supplementation for best color. Propagated by cuttings; the cut stem readily produces side shoots.