Adding live plants to your aquarium isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about creating a healthier, more balanced environment for your fish.
The right plants provide oxygen, absorb harmful toxins, reduce algae growth and offer shelter for shy species. But with so many options of all shapes and sizes, how do you choose the best aquarium plants for your setup?
The first thing to consider is your tank’s conditions. Some plants, like Java Fern and Anubias, thrive in low-light environments, making them ideal for beginners. Others, such as carpeting plants like Dwarf Hairgrass, require high-intensity lighting and nutrient-rich substrates to flourish. Think about your tank’s size - tall background plants like Vallisneria create a lush, structured look, while compact plants work well in smaller aquariums.
Another key factor is maintenance. If you’re looking for fuss-free options, slow-growing plants like Amazon Sword or Cryptocoryne require little upkeep beyond occasional trimming. Floating plants like Amazon Frogbit add a natural touch while helping to control excess nutrients, but they can quickly take over if not managed.
For those interested in aquascaping, the plant’s growth pattern matters. Stem plants like Bacopa Caroliniana can be trimmed and shaped to create dense underwater forests, while mosses and ferns can be attached to driftwood for a more natural aesthetic.
Lastly? You'll want to keep in mind your aquarium's inhabitants and their preferences. Some species, including goldfish and cichlids, love to dig up or nibble on plants, so opting for hardy varieties is essential or you'll be restocking on the regular.
We’ve rounded up all of the best aquarium plants below
Pro-Shrimp Anubias Barteri
A near-indestructible plant, Anubias Barteri is a favourite among beginner and seasoned aquarists alike. This slow-growing, hardy plant thrives in a range of conditions and doesn’t need intense lighting or CO₂ injection to flourish. Its broad, deep-green leaves not only add a jungle-like aesthetic to your aquarium but also provide shelter for shy fish and shrimp.
Best attached to driftwood or rocks rather than buried in substrate, Anubias Barteri is low-maintenance and virtually algae-resistant - making it a fuss-free, long-lasting addition to any aquatic setup.
Buy now £5.26, Swell
Aquarium Gardens Java Fern
A true classic in the aquascaping world, Java Fern is a go-to plant for those wanting a low-maintenance, elegant greenery in their tank. Its long, flowing leaves create a natural, wild look while offering fantastic hiding spots for fish and fry.
Unlike many rooted plants, Java Fern prefers to be attached to hardscape elements like wood or rocks, making it ideal for a variety of aquarium layouts. It thrives in low to moderate light, doesn’t require CO₂, and is resistant to nibbling fish - perfect for cichlid tanks or community setups where plant-eating species roam.
Buy now £4.75, Aquarium Gardens
Amazon Amazon Sword
If you’re looking to create an instant impact in your aquarium, the Amazon Sword is your plant. With its broad, lush green leaves reaching upwards, it adds structure and height to tanks, making it a stunning focal point. Perfect for medium to large aquariums, this hardy plant thrives in nutrient-rich substrates and benefits from root tabs for optimal growth. While it enjoys moderate lighting, it’s not overly demanding, making it an excellent choice for beginners. As a bonus, its dense foliage offers brilliant cover for shy fish and breeding species.
Buy now, Amazon
Pro-Shrimp Cryptocoryne Wendtii
For aquarists wanting a rich, leafy foreground or midground plant, Cryptocoryne Wendtii is a brilliant choice. Known for its adaptability, this plant can thrive in a range of water parameters, from soft to hard water. It’s easy to grow and undemanding, making it a staple for low-tech tanks.
Once settled, it forms beautiful, bushy clusters that create a natural look while offering shade and hiding spots for fish. Be mindful of the classic ‘crypt melt’ when first introducing it to your tank - once it adjusts, it grows back stronger and better than ever.
Buy now £9.40, Amazon
Aquarium Gardens Dwarf Hairgrass
Want to create a lush underwater meadow? Dwarf Hairgrass is your go-to carpeting plant. With its fine, grass-like blades, it spreads naturally across the substrate, forming a dense, soft green carpet that’s perfect for aquascaping. It’s a favourite for shrimp keepers and nano tank enthusiasts, offering a natural grazing ground for invertebrates.
While it does best with moderate to high light and CO₂ supplementation, it’s still manageable in lower-tech setups. Regular trimming encourages new growth, and once established, this plant transforms the aquarium floor into a stunning, vibrant landscape.
Buy now £10.99, Amazon
AquaPlants Water Wisteria
Water Wisteria is the ultimate fast-growing, fuss-free aquarium plant for those who want lush greenery without the wait. Its feathery, vibrant leaves create a jungle-like aesthetic while providing excellent cover for fish and fry.
This plant is an oxygen powerhouse, improving water quality and reducing algae growth by absorbing excess nutrients. Adaptable to a variety of lighting and water conditions, Water Wisteria can be planted in the substrate or left floating, making it a versatile choice for any tank.
Buy now £20.00, Amazon
AquaEssentials Amazon Frogbit
For a natural, pond-like feel in your aquarium, Amazon Frogbit is a top-tier floating plant. With its small, round green leaves and trailing roots, it provides shade for fish while helping to regulate light levels and reduce algae growth. Ideal for shrimp tanks and betta setups, it mimics the natural environment of many freshwater species.
It requires little maintenance, though occasional thinning may be needed to prevent it from covering the entire water surface. If you want a floating plant that adds character, improves water quality, and creates a serene aquatic vibe, Amazon Frogbit is a fantastic choice.
Buy now £8.49, Amazon
Lilies Water Gardens Vallisneria Spiralis
Vallisneria Spiralis, also known as "Straight Vallis," is a classic aquarium staple for a reason. With its tall, ribbon-like leaves, it adds vertical structure and movement to any tank. Ideal for background planting, it creates a lush, natural backdrop while offering shelter for fish and fry.
This plant is extremely hardy, thriving in a range of water conditions, making it perfect for beginners. Once established, it spreads runners across the substrate, forming dense underwater meadows. If you want an easy-to-maintain plant that grows effortlessly and adds a dynamic look to your tank, Vallisneria Spiralis is a solid pick.
Buy now £7.95, Amazon
Aquarium Gardens Bacopa Caroliniana
If you’re looking for an elegant, slow-growing stem plant, Bacopa Caroliniana is a standout. Its thick, rounded leaves grow in pairs along sturdy stems, creating a structured, almost architectural look in the aquarium.
Unlike fast-growing stem plants that require frequent trimming, Bacopa is low-maintenance, making it a great option for those who want beautiful greenery without constant upkeep. It thrives under moderate light and produces a stunning bronze hue on its upper leaves in higher lighting. With its ability to absorb excess nutrients and keep water conditions stable, this plant is as practical as it is attractive.
Buy now £4.49, Aquarium Gardens
Kingrun 30-piece artificial plant set
Not all aquarium plants need to be real! If you’re after a vibrant, hassle-free aquascape, this Kingrun 30-piece artificial plant set is an excellent option. Featuring a mix of colours, shapes and sizes, these plastic plants provide a lively, realistic-looking underwater landscape without the need for trimming or special care.
Perfect for fish keepers who want decoration without the demands of live plants, these artificial plants won’t decay, alter water chemistry, or require lighting. They’re also a great choice for tanks with fish that love to dig up live plants. For a no-maintenance, colourful aquascape, this set delivers.
Buy now £13.99, Amazon
Verdict
In our opinion, the Anubias Barteri is the best aquarium plant thanks to its incredible hardiness, low-maintenance nature and versatile placement options. Thriving in a wide range of conditions without intense lighting or CO₂, it’s ideal for beginners and experts alike.
