What Houseplants Are Safe to Put in a Fish Tank?

Wayne Taylor
Written By Wayne Taylor

Having houseplants in a fish tank is an excellent way to create a beautiful and inviting environment for your aquatic friends. Not only do houseplants provide a place for fish to hide and play, but they also act as a natural filter, helping to clean the water as they absorb ammonia and nitrates. It’s important to make sure you choose the right type of plants to ensure a safe, healthy environment for your fish. Java Moss, Vallisneria, Anubias, and Java Fern are all great options that are safe to put in a fish tank.

What are Houseplants?

Houseplants are plants that can be grown indoors; they add beauty and life to our living spaces. There are numerous houseplant varieties, from small succulents to large tree-like plants. Each type of houseplant has its own unique characteristics, so it’s important to choose one that will thrive in your particular environment.

Depending on the type of houseplant, some require more care than others. When it comes to choosing houseplants for a fish tank, you want to choose plants that are not just aesthetically pleasing, but also safe for your fish.

It’s important to keep in mind that some houseplants can be toxic to your fish, so research is key.

There are a few houseplants that have been deemed safe for fish tanks, such as Java Moss, Vallisneria, Anubias, and Java Fern. These plants are known to be non-toxic and are generally hardy enough to survive in a fish tank environment. Having houseplants in a fish tank can be beneficial for both the plants and the fish.

Not only do the plants add a natural, living touch to the tank, but they can also help filter the water. The plants absorb nutrients from the water, thus helping to reduce the levels of ammonia and nitrate in the tank, making the water cleaner and healthier for the fish. The plants provide shade and hiding places in the tank, which can be beneficial to the fish as they can have a place to escape from the light.

What Houseplants Are Safe to Put in a Fish Tank?

When it comes to decorating your fish tank, adding houseplants can be a great way to bring it alive. But which houseplants are safe for your fish tank?

Java Moss, Vallisneria, Anubias, and Java Fern are all good options. Each of these plants has unique characteristics that not only make them safe for your fish tank but also add to its beauty.

Java Moss is the perfect choice for inexperienced aquarists because it’s very easy to care for and grows quickly. It thrives in all kinds of water conditions and can be used to create different shapes and textures.

Meanwhile, is an excellent choice for adding height to your fish tank as it can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. It also provides cover for your fish and helps keep water oxygenated.

Anubias and Java Fern are both slow-growing plants that require little maintenance. They are also very easy to propagate and don’t require a lot of light, making them ideal for beginners. They look great in any fish tank and add colour and texture.

These four houseplants are safe for your fish tank and come with a range of benefits, from enhancing water oxygenation to adding visual interest. So if you’re looking for a way to spruce up your tank, these are the plants for you!

Java Moss

Java Moss is one of the best options for a fish tank since it grows quickly and requires very little maintenance. It’s easy to look after and it helps reduce the nitrate levels in the tank, making it a good choice for fish.

You will need to trim it back occasionally to keep it looking its best and to prevent it from overgrowing other plants. The moss can be attached to rocks or driftwood with fishing line or thread and it will eventually attach itself to the surface. Java Moss also provides hiding spots for your fish, giving them more privacy and making them feel secure.

Anubias is another great option for fish tanks.

It’s a low-maintenance plant that can be easily attached to rocks or driftwood. Anubias is a slow-growing plant, so it won’t take over the tank like some other plants.

It does need some light, so make sure to position it near the top of the tank. Anubias is also a great hiding spot for fish and will provide them with a sense of security. Also known as eelgrass, is a fast-growing plant that helps keep the water clean and can also be used as a hiding spot for fish.

The long, thick leaves of Vallisneria provide a large area for fish to hide and they will often rest on top of them or shelter beneath them. Vallisneria is also easy to maintain and requires regular trimming to keep it looking its best.

Vallisneria

Vallisneria is a great choice for a fish tank as it provides a natural hiding place for fish as well as oxygenating the water. This hardy plant is easy to care for and can survive in most water conditions. It grows in a fan-shaped pattern and can reach up to three feet in height.

It requires relatively low light and can be grown in a variety of substrates, including gravel, clay, and sand. Just make sure that you don’t submerge the roots, as this can cause them to rot. Vallisneria is a great addition to any fish tank, adding a natural look and creating a healthier environment for the fish.

Anubias

Anubias is a great choice for your fish tank. It is a slow-growing, hardy plant that does best in low-light environments, making it a great option for aquariums.

Anubias plants also don’t require a lot of maintenance and don’t need to be pruned, so you can relax knowing that your fish tank will be looking great with very minimal effort. Anubias plants are perfect for beginners as they are extremely easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of aquarium conditions.

Anubias plants are great for adding natural cover to your tank and providing hiding spots for your fish. They also have a very attractive look and can be used to add interesting texture and color to your tank. Anubias plants can also help reduce algae growth in your tank, which can be very beneficial for your fish.

Anubias plants are easy to install and can be attached to rocks, driftwood, or other decorations in your tank. They are a great addition to any tank, and can provide a natural and attractive look. Anubias plants are also a great option for those looking to add a bit of life to their aquarium without having to worry about too much maintenance.

Java Fern

Java Fern is a great option when selecting a houseplant for your fish tank. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, which makes it a good choice if you’re not sure what your tank’s ideal temperature is. It’s very hardy and can survive in low-light conditions.

Java Fern also takes up very little space, so it won’t crowd the tank or take away from the natural environment for your fish. It also helps keep the water clean and clear by absorbing toxins and reducing nitrate levels.

As an added bonus, it’s also very attractive and can look great in your tank. If you’re looking for an easy and attractive houseplant for your fish tank, Java Fern is an excellent choice.

It’s low maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and water conditions, making it a great option if you’re looking for something hardy and low-maintenance. It helps keep toxins and nitrates low, and its attractive foliage can take your tank to the next level. So why not give it a try and see what it can do for your tank?

Benefits of Having Houseplants in a Fish Tank

Adding houseplants to your fish tank is a great way to decorate your tank and create a natural environment for your fish. The houseplants will keep the water clean and also provide a hiding place for your fish. There are certain houseplants that are safe to put in a fish tank, such as Java Moss, Vallisneria, Anubias, and Java Fern.

These houseplants are sturdy and can survive in a fish tank without any issues.

The plants provide natural food for the fish, as well as producing oxygen for the water. This helps to keep the water oxygenated and healthy for your fish.

It is important to remember that not all houseplants are suitable for a fish tank. Before adding any houseplants to the tank, make sure to research them to determine if they are safe for the fish. If you are adding living plants, make sure that you quarantine them first to ensure that they don’t contain any harmful bacteria or parasites. Taking the time to research and quarantine the plants will help keep your fish healthy and safe.