Answer four quick questions about your tank to see which live plants are likely to thrive. Matches are based on the light, CO₂, placement and fish-compatibility notes in our care guides.
Quick answer: To choose aquarium plants, match them to your light and CO2 first, then tank size and fish. With low light and no CO2, pick Anubias, Java fern, Java moss, Bucephalandra and Cryptocoryne. With medium light add Water wisteria, Vallisneria, Rotala rotundifolia and Dwarf sagittaria. Strong light with CO2 opens up carpets like Monte Carlo and Dwarf hairgrass and red plants like Rotala wallichii. For goldfish, stick to tough plants tied to hardscape, such as Anubias and Java fern.
Find plants for your tank
How the finder works
Each plant is tagged with the light it tolerates, whether it needs CO₂, suitable tank sizes, and fish it is usually safe with. The results are a starting point: always check the care guide before buying.
Want a ready-made set? See our aquarium plant starter kits for nano, betta, 2 ft and 3 ft tanks.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest aquarium plant for any tank?
Anubias and Java fern suit almost every tank: low light, no CO2, and they grow on wood or rock.
Which plants are safe with goldfish?
Tough plants tied to hardscape, such as Anubias, Java fern and Bucephalandra, plus fast growers like Egeria densa that regrow after nibbling.
Do I need CO2 for a carpet?
Monte Carlo and Dwarf hairgrass do best with CO2. Without CO2, Dwarf sagittaria and Staurogyne repens are easier.
Comparing species? The aquarium plant care chart lists light, CO2, growth rate and price for all 55 plants we stock.
Not sure how many plants to order? See how many aquarium plants you need for your tank size.
