Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae 'Pink' is a striking long-leaved Cryptocoryne prized for its elegant, flowing foliage and distinctive pink to bronze coloration. Its narrow, heavily textured leaves create beautiful movement in the aquarium, making it an excellent choice for the midground or background of larger planted layouts.
Compared with standard green forms of Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae, the 'Pink' variety can develop warmer pink, bronze, and reddish tones depending on lighting, nutrients, and overall aquarium conditions. The result is a graceful plant that adds both texture and subtle colour contrast without looking overly bold.
Supplied as a Tissue Culture, this plant is grown under sterile laboratory conditions and arrives free from snails, algae, and unwanted pests.
Placement: Midground to background.
Lighting: Low to moderate lighting is sufficient, while stronger lighting can encourage richer coloration.
CO₂: Optional, but supplemental CO₂ can improve growth and overall appearance.
Substrate: Best grown in a nutrient-rich planted aquarium substrate.
Fertilization: Benefits from root tabs and consistent nutrient availability.
Maintenance: Remove older or damaged outer leaves and avoid repeatedly disturbing the root system once established.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae 'Pink' |
| Common Name | Balansae Pink Crypt |
| Format | Tissue Culture |
| Plant Type | Rosette Plant |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Moderate |
| Typical Height | Approximately 25–60 cm (10–24") |
| Colour | Green / Bronze / Pink / Reddish Tones |
| Placement | Midground / Background |
| Lighting | Low to Moderate |
| CO₂ | Optional |
| Propagation | Runners / Daughter Plants |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
The long, ribbon-like foliage of Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae 'Pink' is ideal for adding height and movement behind rocks, driftwood, and lower-growing plants. As the leaves mature, they can arch naturally through the aquarium and soften the appearance of hardscape.
Its pink and bronze tones also provide a subtle alternative to bright red stem plants. Pair it with deep green Cryptocoryne, Anubias, Bucephalandra, or fine-leaved stem plants to emphasize its warm coloration and textured foliage.
The exact appearance of Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae 'Pink' can vary depending on lighting, nutrient availability, maturity, and aquarium conditions. New and mature foliage may display different combinations of green, bronze, pink, and reddish coloration.
Once established, the plant develops its characteristic long, textured foliage and can gradually spread through runners, producing additional daughter plants around the original rosette.
Take a closer look at Cryptocoryne balansae 'Pink' in this video from Aquascaperoom Canada.
Available in Canada at Aquascaperoom — premium tissue culture aquarium plants and professional aquascaping supplies.
