Care Guide
Obedient Plant
Physostegia Leptophylla
Care at a Glance
Lighting
Adaptable
Growth Rate
Moderate
Growth Form
Varies
Placement
Versatile
True Aquatic
Yes
Available As
2” and 4” Pot
About This Plant
Physostegia leptophylla Abundant lavender stalks of flowers
Quick-Reference Details
- Common name
- Obedient Plant
- Scientific name
- Physostegia Leptophylla
- Family
- Lamiaceae
- Native to
- Eastern North America
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Requirements
- Hardy marginal
- Available as
- 2” and 4” Pot
Difficulty — Intermediate
Forgiving enough for hobbyists with one tank of experience. Watch lighting and nutrient levels for best growth.
CO2 & Fertilization
CO2 is optional. Growth improves with supplementation, but the plant survives and stays presentable without it.
Tank Size & Setup
Works in tanks 10 gallons and up. Match the plant size to your tank depth for the cleanest aquascape.
Aquascaping & Placement
Position to suit your aquascape — most placements work as long as light reaches the leaves.
Tank-Mate Compatibility
Compatible with the full range of community-tank species — tetras, rasboras, livebearers, corydoras, and most other peaceful freshwater fish do not damage the foliage. Tough enough for cichlid tanks and goldfish setups where most other plants are uprooted or eaten — the leaves are too leathery for those fish to chew through.
Common Care Issues
Slow initial growth
Most aquarium plants pause for 2-4 weeks after planting while they convert from their nursery-grown emersed form to fully submerged growth. New leaves that emerge underwater will look thinner and slightly different — this is the plant adapting, not a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much light does Obedient Plant need?
Obedient Plant adapts to most planted-tank lighting setups. A standard LED fixture run 7-9 hours a day produces good growth.
Does Obedient Plant need CO2?
CO2 is optional. Growth improves with supplementation, but the plant survives and stays presentable without it.
Is Obedient Plant good for beginners?
Obedient Plant is rated intermediate-level. Forgiving enough for hobbyists with one tank of experience. Watch lighting and nutrient levels for best growth.
How fast does Obedient Plant grow?
Most planted-tank growers report moderate growth, with trims needed every few weeks under typical conditions.
What fish and invertebrates are compatible with Obedient Plant?
Compatible with the full range of community-tank species — tetras, rasboras, livebearers, corydoras, and most other peaceful freshwater fish do not damage the foliage. Tough enough for cichlid tanks and goldfish setups where most other plants are uprooted or eaten — the leaves are too leathery for those fish to chew through.
Available to Purchase
Obedient Plant — $22.99
Free 2-day shipping on orders over $100