Jungle Val

Native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of North America, Jungle Val is one of the most dramatic background plants you can put in a large aquarium. Its long, ribbon-like leaves spiral slightly as they grow, eventually reaching the water surface and then flowing across it, creating that signature canopy look that gives the plant its name.

Under good conditions, a single plant can colonize a whole tank corner within a few months by sending out horizontal runners, each tipped with a daughter plant ready to take root. It asks for very little: moderate light, a nutrient-rich substrate, and some patience while it settles in after planting. Melting back after being transplanted is normal and frustrating, but new growth usually follows.

It performs best in harder, slightly alkaline water, which matches its native habitat, though it tolerates a surprisingly wide range. Soft, acidic conditions will stunt it.

Plant it deep in the background of tanks 200 liters and up, give it room to spread, and it will reward you with a lush, swaying wall of green that most fish absolutely love to swim through.