• Scientific name: Vallisneria americana
• Synonym: Vallisneria spiralis var. americana; V. asiatica; V. neotropicalis; V gigantea
• Common name: Dwarf vallisneria
• Family: Hydrocarithaceae
• Group: Aquarium plants
• Max height: 80 cm
• Distribution: North America
• Habitat: Standing and fast-flowing water
• Substrate: Sand
• Placement in aquarium: Background
• Planting density: 4-5 plants for 20 cm²
• Lighting needs: Bright
• Temperature: 20-26 °C
• pH: 6,5-7,5
• Hardness: 3-12 NK°

Description: Vallisneria americana is an often kept species which is commercially available in various growth forms which differ in leaf length and leaf width. When purchasing such large-growing specimens, one has to consider that the leaves will float on the water surface in too-low tanks, and will thus considerably reduce the amount of light. The plants are most comfortable in medium-hard to hard alkaline water with strong circulation. Since they develop a strong root network, they should be set in a sandy substrate with a minimum depth of 7 cm. In the midground or background of the smaller aquarium, this short vallisneria makes a good alternative to the larger Vallisneria species. The leaves are highly zwisted and will reach between 15-20 cm. It is undemanding and should grow well in most conditions if given sufficent lighting.