Rooted mean that this plant was cultivated in soil and sent to you in soil
Why do we offer this plant in soil? 
Our research here at our facility reveals that plants previously grown in soil adapt more quickly to aquatic environments compared to those cultivated in regular rockwool pots. We attribute this to the closer resemblance to their natural evolutionary conditions.
 
What's the alternative to soil-planted plants? 
The standard option is plants potted in rockwool, commonly available at your local aquatic store. 
Additionally, during the summer months, we also provide submerged plants for most species.
 
Link to this plant submerged - if available 
 
Link to an article on this subject
 
Nomaphila variagatus, also known as Variegated Water Hyssop:
Species: Nomaphila variagatus
Common Names: Variegated Water Hyssop
Difficulty Level: Easy
Lighting Requirements: Moderate to High (at least 2-3 watts per gallon of aquarium lighting)
CO2 Requirements: Not required but recommended for optimal growth
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
pH: 6.0-7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2-10 dKH)
Plant Placement: Background or Mid-ground
Propagation: Cuttings or side shoots
Care Tips:
Lighting: Nomaphila variagatus prefers moderate to high lighting levels for optimal growth and coloration. Use high-quality LED or fluorescent lights with a color temperature around 6500K or higher for best results. Avoid placing it in areas with low light as it may result in leggy growth and poor coloration.
CO2: While not required, providing supplemental CO2 can promote faster growth and healthier appearance. Nomaphila variagatus can benefit from CO2 injection, especially in setups with high lighting levels. CO2 supplementation can help to prevent algae growth and maintain healthy and vibrant leaves.
Water Parameters: Nomaphila variagatus prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH and soft to moderately hard water. Keep the water clean and well-aerated, and perform regular water changes to maintain optimal water quality. Avoid sudden changes in water parameters, as it can cause stress and affect plant health.
Substrate: Provide a nutrient-rich substrate to promote healthy root growth. Nomaphila variagatus can benefit from a nutrient-rich substrate such as aquarium soil, clay-based substrate, or nutrient-rich gravel. You can also add root tabs or liquid fertilizers to provide essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning and Propagation: Regular pruning is important to maintain a neat appearance and encourage bushier growth. Trim any yellow or damaged leaves and trim the stems to the desired height using sharp aquarium scissors. Nomaphila variagatus can propagate through cuttings or side shoots, which can be replanted in the substrate to create new plants.
Placement: Nomaphila variagatus can be used as a background or mid-ground plant in the aquarium. Its tall and upright growth habit can create a lush and dense background in your aquascape. Consider planting it in groups or clusters for a fuller appearance.
Algae Control: Nomaphila variagatus is relatively resistant to algae growth, but it can still be affected by algae in high light and nutrient-rich setups. Regularly check for algae growth on the leaves and remove it promptly to prevent it from affecting the plant's health and appearance. Maintaining optimal water parameters, lighting levels, and nutrient levels can also help to prevent algae growth.
Nomaphila variagatus is an easy-to-care-for aquatic plant that can add lush greenery and visual interest to your aquarium. Provide it with moderate to high lighting, a nutrient-rich substrate, and stable water parameters, and it will thrive and enhance the beauty of your aquatic setup.