Which Aquarium Plants Are Best for Beginners?

Adding live plants to your aquarium not only enhances the natural beauty of your tank but also improves water quality and gives your fish a more comfortable habitat. However, if you're a beginner, choosing the right plants can feel overwhelming.

In this guide, we’ll help you discover which aquarium plants are best for beginners, how to care for them, and why they’re a great starting point for your planted tank journey—especially if you're setting up a tank in Pune with its unique water conditions.

Why Choose Live Aquarium Plants?

Before diving into specific plant names, here’s why live plants are a smart choice for any aquarium hobbyist:

• Help control algae by consuming excess nutrients

• Provide oxygen during the day

• Offer hiding spots for shy or stressed fish

• Create a more natural and aesthetic look

• Improve water quality by reducing ammonia and nitrates

Top 7 Beginner-Friendly Aquarium Plants

1. Anubias

Anubias is one of the most beginner-friendly plants. It grows slowly, has thick leaves, and doesn’t require high light or CO₂ injection.

Care Tips:

• Attach to rocks or driftwood (do not bury roots)

• Grows well in low to medium light

• Very hardy and long-lasting

2. Java Fern

A classic favorite for new aquarists. Java Fern is easy to care for and can thrive in different water conditions.

Care Tips:

• Best attached to décor, not planted in the substrate

• Requires low to moderate lighting

• Doesn’t need special substrate or CO₂

3. Amazon Sword

Perfect for medium to large tanks, Amazon Swords grow big and lush, creating a beautiful green backdrop.

Care Tips:

• Plant in substrate

• Needs moderate light and occasional root tabs

• Benefits from nutrient-rich soil

4. Vallisneria

Often referred to as aquarium grass, Vallisneria creates a forest-like effect and grows quickly with minimal care.

Care Tips:

• Best for background planting

• Grows well in low to medium light

• Spreads via runners, creating a natural look

5. Java Moss

A true multitasker! Use it as a carpet, attach it to rocks, or drape it on driftwood—it will grow anywhere.

Care Tips:

• Grows in almost any condition

• Ideal for shrimp tanks and breeding tanks

• Low light tolerant and undemanding

6. Cryptocoryne (Crypts)

These low-maintenance plants come in different leaf shapes and colors. Perfect for mid-ground decoration.

Care Tips:

• Plant in substrate

• Tolerates a wide range of water parameters

• Can melt initially, but regrows once settled

7. Hornwort

A fast-growing, floating or planted plant that helps absorb excess nutrients and reduce algae.

Care Tips:

• Does not require substrate

• Grows fast in medium lighting

• Great for oxygenation and hiding spaces

Tips to Keep Your Aquarium Plants Healthy

• Use LED aquarium lights for better growth

• Choose root tabs or liquid fertilizers for nutrition

• Avoid burying rhizomes of Anubias and Java Fern

• Change 20–30% water weekly to keep conditions stable

• Watch for signs of algae or melting and adjust care

Buy Beginner-Friendly Aquarium Plants in Pune

At Blessings Aquarium, Pune, we stock a wide range of easy-care plants including Anubias, Java Ferns, Amazon Swords, and more. Our team will guide you in selecting the perfect combination for your tank size and water conditions.

We also offer decor-ready options with plants pre-attached to driftwood and rocks, ideal for new hobbyists who want beauty without the hassle.