Plant Description

 Hornwort (Ceratophyllum Demersum) Submerged Oxygenating Pond Plant

 

Spring 2026 Notice on color and southeast drought:

Floating and submerged plants often slightly yellow or brown a little when out of water.All hornwort in the aquatic plant industry is wild harvested in North and Central Florida waterways, this year 2026 there is an incredible drought and water flows are very slow to almost still and nutrient levels very low so the lush green fast growing heads have not been present all spring. The hornwort, when introduced to better conditions in a pond with a pot and usually higher nutrient water, will start growing better.

Unfortunately until rains and water flow return to the area these are collected they will be thinner but they are absolutely alive and guaranteed. These don't need acclimated on arrival but please include photos as we ask if you think they may be more brown or yellow, especially if UPS tracking shows transit was more than 3 days which is the maximum time we want them in transit. 

 

Hornwort (Ceratophyllum Demersum) Is a fantastic oxygenating submerged pond plant, as it helps to add oxygen to the water while also emitting a hormone to help eliminate algae. Hornwort grows well in full sun to full shade, and in long, branching stems. Hornwort grows quickly and helps to clarify the water as you see in the photos, it is very easy to grow. It can be tucked into the substrate at the bottom of the pond, weighted with small anchors or potted in containers with heavy loam, sand, or 1/8th inch aquarium gravel (no more significant). Submerged plants may ship in winter months, as they are not subject to cold, but if ordered with an additional plant, they must ship together in spring when the weather is warmer. Other common names include coontail. 

Hornwort is also great for spawning or cover for small fish. This underwater oxygenating grass is the best plant to compete with algae and keep a healthy, clean pond. Other benefits include being a sanctuary for fish from predators and fish fry when young.

When you purchase Hornwort, remember to remove the rubber band before planting. These bands can harm the stem and cause the plant to float to the surface. Oxygenating pond plants, including Hornwort, release and absorb oxygen during the day at night. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that your pond, especially if it houses many fish, has sufficient circulation, either through natural or mechanical means. Oxygen levels in a pond are typically at their lowest around daybreak. Hornwort / Fanwort is undeniably the most vital plant for maintaining a balanced ecosystem free from algae. This is by far the very best oxygenating submerged pond plant for most ponds and water gardens in the United States and is legal in all fifty states. For other choices consider Vallisneria torta, especially for large ponds for fishing or small ponds you want to see to the bottom, and no koi or carp are present. 

 

Planting Instructions

 

Plant hornwort in the substrate on the bottom of your pond or plant in small containers using 1/8 inch pea gravel or sand. Hornwort may also be anchored with small weights.