Vallisneria Spiralis - Vallis

Vallisneria spiralis, also known as straight vallisneria, tape grass, or eel grass is a common aquarium plant that prefers good light and a nutrient rich substrate. In the wild, it can be found in tropical and sub-tropical regions worldwide. It has narrow, linear leaves that range in colour from a pale-green to reddish up to 3 feet (1 m) long and up to 0.75 inches broad. V. spiralis is monoecious with flowers carried on long spiral stalks that break away from the plant and float on the water's surface. Seeds have not been observed germinating in aquaria. Instead, it most often propagates by runners which can lead to dense stands.

Vallis grows completely submerged and root deeply in the substrate. It is commonly used in aquariums with fish known for digging, since its deep roots make it very difficult to dislocate. Because of its size, it should only be used as a background plant, and it can quickly overgrow a small aquarium.

Vallisneria spiralis,are incredibly hardy, and can adapt to most water conditions. With that being said, they are one of the few plants that prefer hard, alkaline water and may experience slower growth in soft, acidic water. They are also one of the few plants that can tolerate brackish water, though this will negatively impact their growth rate and propagation.

When choosing a substrate, either gravel or sand are acceptable

Vallisneria spiralis do best under high lighting, though they will adapt to moderate lighting – with significantly slowed growth rates. When choosing lighting for a jungle val, a high quality LED, or speciality plant bulb (CFL, Fluorescent Tube) are the best choices.