Aquarium Plants That Can Handle Hotter Water: The Best Choices for Discus Tanks
Aquarium Plants That Can Handle the Heat
If you’ve ever kept discus fish, you’ll know they like it hot. With optimal temperatures between 28–31°C (82–88°F), discus aquariums can be tough for many plants that struggle in warmer water.
But there’s good news, plenty of aquarium plants can handle hotter water and still bring lush greenery to your setup. Whether you’re aiming for a natural South American look or a modern planted display, here are the top plants that thrive in high-temperature aquariums.
1. Amazon Sword (Echinodorus bleheri)
A true discus tank staple. Amazon Swords are native to the warm, soft waters of the Amazon just like discus. They grow large and provide perfect cover for your fish.
Temperature Range: 24–31°C
Light: Medium
Pro Tip: Amazon swords are greedy, use nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs to keep them thriving.
2. Anubias (Anubias barteri, A. nana, etc.)
Anubias are practically indestructible and tolerate heat extremely well. Their thick, waxy leaves resist algae and grow happily in shaded spots.
Temperature Range: 24–32°C
Light: Low to medium
Pro Tip: Attach to wood or rock, never bury the rhizome.
3. Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus)
A classic, hardy plant that handles warmer water with ease. Java Fern grows slowly but steadily, making it perfect for low-maintenance setups.
Temperature Range: 22–30°C
Light: Low to medium
Pro Tip: Attach to hardscape, don’t plant directly into substrate.
4. Cryptocoryne Species (C. wendtii, C. balansae, etc.)
These plants can tolerate higher temps once established. Some may “melt” initially regardless of the temperature but recover beautifully under stable conditions.
👉see our blog about crypt melt
Temperature Range: 24–31°C
Light: Low to medium
Pro Tip: Keep them in place, moving crypts too often can cause setback.
5. Vallisneria (Val spiralis, V. americana, etc.)
Perfect for background planting, Vallisneria thrives in hotter tanks and provides excellent movement and oxygenation.
Temperature Range: 24–31°C
Light: Medium
Pro Tip: Give it space, Vallisneria spreads quickly by runners.
6. Bolbitis heudelotii (African Water Fern)
This elegant fern loves warm, soft, and slightly acidic water, exactly what discus prefer. It adds a lush, textured touch to driftwood and stone.
Temperature Range: 24–30°C
Light: Medium
Pro Tip: Attach to wood
Why Hotter Doesn’t Mean Harder
Many aquarists assume that higher temperatures limit plant selection, but choosing heat-tolerant species proves otherwise.
Hotter tanks can actually promote faster plant growth, stronger colouration, and a more natural look when paired with good fertilisation and CO₂ balance.
Tips for Success in High-Temperature Planted Tanks
✅ Maintain stable CO₂ — warmer water loses gas faster.
✅ Ensure good flow for even nutrient distribution.
✅ Use high-quality root tabs and liquid fertilisers.
✅ Let plants establish before adding discus to reduce stress.
Build a Lush, Heat-Ready Aquascape
At Horizon Aquatics, we stock a curated range of aquarium plants that can handle hotter water, along with CO₂ systems, fertilisers, and substrates designed for advanced planted tanks.
Whether you’re designing a natural discus biotope or a vibrant planted display, our team can help you choose the right plants and equipment for long-term success.
Shop our live plants and aquascaping essentials today and create a tank that thrives in the heat.
Q&A: Hotter Water Aquarium Plants & Discus Tanks
Can aquarium plants survive in the high temperatures discus need?
Absolutely! While some delicate plants may struggle, many species such as Amazon Swords, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne thrive in temperatures up to 30–32°C. Choosing heat-tolerant plants ensures your aquarium stays green and healthy even at discus-friendly temps.
Do I need CO₂ in a discus tank with live plants?
It depends on your setup. Many heat-tolerant plants (like Anubias and Java Fern) do fine without CO₂, but adding it can improve growth and help plants compete with algae especially in hotter tanks where metabolism increases.
Why do some plants “melt” when I move them into a warm discus tank?
“Melting” is a normal response when plants adjust to new water conditions or temperature. Most recover quickly once established, just leave the roots undisturbed and new growth should appear within a few weeks.
What’s the best lighting for a hot, planted discus aquarium?
Moderate lighting is usually ideal. Too much light can cause algae, especially in hotter tanks. Focus on steady, 6–8-hour light cycles and good nutrient balance.
Can I keep carpeting plants in a discus tank?
Some carpeting plants, like Marsilea hirsuta or Eleocharis acicularis (Dwarf Hairgrass), can adapt to warmer water, but they’ll need CO₂ and good lighting. Most aquarists prefer mid- or background plants for simplicity and stability in hotter setups.