Who Gives A Fish Forums

I'm setting up a new 20 gallon planted tank and can't decide between Hornwort and Water Sprite. Which one grows faster and is easier to maintain? I've got moderate lighting and a basic CO2 setup.

Hornwort grows like crazy, even without CO2. It's a floating plant, so it'll spread across the top of your tank. Water Sprite is more versatile, you can plant it or let it float. Both are low maintenance, but Hornwort might need more trimming.

yo, Hornwort's a beast. it'll take over your tank if you let it. Water Sprite's chill, grows slower but looks nicer imo. depends if you wanna deal with constant trimming or not.

Thanks for the input. I think I'll go with Water Sprite since I don't want to deal with excessive trimming. Any tips on planting it?

Water Sprite's roots are delicate. Plant it gently in the substrate or just let it float. Either way works, but floating might be easier for a beginner.

finnx wrote: ↑Thu Jul 17, 2025 1:50 pm yo, Hornwort's a beast. it'll take over your tank if you let it. Water Sprite's chill, grows slower but looks nicer imo. depends if you wanna deal with constant trimming or not.

True, but Hornwort's great for soaking up nitrates if you've got messy fish. Water Sprite's more aesthetic though.

I've had both in my 30 gallon. Hornwort shed needles everywhere, made a mess. Water Sprite stayed tidy and my betta loved hiding in it. Just my two cents.

hazelite wrote: ↑Thu Jul 17, 2025 6:05 pm I've had both in my 30 gallon. Hornwort shed needles everywhere, made a mess. Water Sprite stayed tidy and my betta loved hiding in it. Just my two cents.

That's a good point. Hornwort can be messy if it starts shedding. Water Sprite's definitely cleaner for display tanks.

If you're gonna plant Water Sprite, use a fine substrate. Coarse gravel can damage the roots. Also, keep an eye on your lighting, too much and it might melt at first.

yeah, Water Sprite's picky with light. mine melted when I upgraded to high light. bounced back tho, just gotta give it time.