Common Name: Crypt Lutea
Crypt lutea is a beautiful mid-ground plant with bright green or bronzy oblong leaves with a gracefully wavy shape. Most crypt plants were originally found in fast-flowing limestone bed streams or rivers, and need high levels of calcium to live in a tank environment. Nutrient rich substrate with lots of iron, as well as CO2 injection, will help C. lutea thrive. In the wild they are often found growing emersed, and can produce flowers above the water. They will also grow fine submersed. Water trumpet can be planted into the substrate or attached to a rock or piece of driftwood with a cotton thread or fishing wire.
As with all crypt plants, C. lutea is sensitive to changes in water parameters and don’t like to be moved. It is normal for the plant to undergo “crypt melt” when introduced to a new tank, or if water conditions change too much. The leaves of the plant begin to rot and essentially melt away. If this process begins, you can cut away any rot and attempt to stabilize the water parameters. They should produce new growth once they have acclimated. These plants can also melt if the lighting is too strong so moderate lighting is advised.