Cryptocoryne × willisii

Lore & Background

The taxonomy of this plant was clarified in 1976 when Niels Jacobsen proposed changing the name of Cryptocoryne nevillii to Cryptocoryne × willisii, recognizing it as a natural hybrid. The name is therefore written with a cross: C. × willisii. A valid but different species, Cryptocoryne nevillii, exists as a synonym, and C. lucens is now considered part of the C. × willisii complex.

The plant is native to the Kandy area of Sri Lanka. Its leaves and even the spathe are variable, a trait attributed to its hybrid nature. The crypts page illustrates a number of different forms, making identification difficult. Along with Cryptocoryne parva, it is a smaller member of the genus, reaching only up to 5 cm in size.

In cultivation, Cryptocoryne × willisii is not difficult to grow and is common in aquariums, though some forms do not seem to flower.

Reader's Guide

Cryptocoryne × willisii holds significance as a natural hybrid that is widely cultivated in aquariums. Its history involves a taxonomic revision in 1976 by Niels Jacobsen, who reclassified the previously named Cryptocoryne nevillii. The plant's hybrid nature is reflected in its variable leaves and spathe, which can make identification challenging. It is a smaller species, reaching only up to 5 cm, similar to Cryptocoryne parva. In cultivation, it is considered not difficult to grow and is common in aquariums, though some forms do not seem to flower. Its distribution is limited to the Kandy area of Sri Lanka. The legacy of this plant includes its recognition as a hybrid complex, with C. lucens now considered part of that complex, and its continued presence in the aquarium trade.

Did You Know?

• Cryptocoryne × willisii is a natural hybrid, indicated by the cross in its name.
• The name change from Cryptocoryne nevillii was proposed by Niels Jacobsen in 1976.
• This plant is native only to the Kandy area of Sri Lanka.
• Some forms of Cryptocoryne × willisii do not seem to flower in cultivation.