Water plants are more than just decorative additions to your home garden or aquarium — they play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance, adding oxygen, reducing algae, and attracting beneficial insects. Whether you’re an aquarium hobbyist, pond owner, balcony gardener, or a nature lover, adding water plants can transform your space into a thriving green haven.
But before you hit that “Buy Now” button on any online plant store, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. The variety, growth requirements, compatibility, and quality of water plants can vary drastically.
In this Water Plants Buying Guide, we’ll cover everything you should consider before you order online — from plant types to delivery tips — so you can shop smart and grow with confidence.
Why Water Plants Are Essential for Aquatic Ecosystems
Water plants, also known as aquatic or hydrophyte plants, are species that grow in or around water bodies like aquariums, ponds, water gardens, or mini ecosystems.
Key Benefits:
Oxygenation: They enrich water with oxygen, vital for fish and microorganisms.
Natural Filtration: Plants like duckweed and water hyacinth absorb nitrates, ammonia, and phosphates, keeping your water clean.
Algae Control: By competing with algae for nutrients, they help reduce green water problems.
Aesthetic Appeal: They add a lush, tranquil feel to your garden or indoor water features.
Wildlife Shelter: Floating and rooted plants provide habitat for fish, frogs, and insects.
Types of Water Plants to Know Before You Buy
There are several categories of water plants, and knowing the differences can help you choose the right ones for your space.
1. Floating Water Plants
These plants float on the surface and don’t require soil or substrate.
Popular Floating Plants:
Duckweed
Water Hyacinth
Red Root Floater
Amazon Frogbit
Best For:
Quick surface cover
Natural filtration
Shade for ponds and aquariums
2. Rooted (Submerged) Water Plants
These plants grow with their roots anchored in soil or substrate beneath water.
Popular Rooted Plants:
Vallisneria
Amazon Sword
Anacharis
Hornwort
Best For:
Aquascaping
Oxygenation
Creating depth in aquariums or water gardens
3. Marginal Plants (Bog Plants)
These grow at the edges of ponds or in shallow water.
Popular Marginal Plants:
Water Iris
Umbrella Palm
Canna Lily
Pickerel Rush
Best For:
Outdoor ponds
Rain gardens
Landscaping aesthetics
4. Emergent Plants
These plants have roots underwater, but stems and leaves rise above the surface.
Examples:
Lotus
Water Lily
Papyrus
Best For:
Ornamental ponds
Garden focal points
What to Consider Before You Buy Water Plants Online
Shopping for water plants online is convenient, but you need to be a smart buyer. Here’s what to look for before you add items to your cart:
✅ 1. Know Your Space
Are you buying for a balcony pond, aquarium, or outdoor garden pond?
Check space, sunlight, water depth, and temperature compatibility before selecting plants.
✅ 2. Check for Climate Suitability
Not all aquatic plants thrive in every climate. Make sure the plants you buy are:
Hardy or tropical, depending on your region
Suitable for humidity and temperature levels
✅ 3. Plant Growth Rate and Spread
Some water plants grow fast and can take over your tank or pond quickly.
Fast growers: Duckweed, Hornwort
Moderate growers: Amazon Sword, Vallisneria
Slow growers: Water lilies, Anubias
Choose plants based on how much time you want to spend maintaining them.
✅ 4. Compatibility with Fish and Wildlife
Some fish eat soft-leaved plants (like goldfish), while others may uproot them.
Floating plants provide hiding spots for fish fry.
Ensure your plants and animals can live peacefully together.
✅ 5. Quality of the Online Nursery
Always buy from a reputed online plant nursery that:
Offers healthy, pest-free plants
Provides safe packaging
Has transparent shipping timelines and return policies
Shares plant care instructions for beginners
✅ 6. Understand Shipping and Transit Time
Water plants are delicate. Look for sellers who:
Ship plants freshly harvested
Pack in moisture-retaining, insulated packaging
Offer same or next-day dispatch
Pro Tip: How to Clean and Acclimate Plants After Delivery
Before introducing your new water plants to your pond or tank:
Rinse under clean water to remove dirt and debris.
Soak in a mild potassium permanganate or saltwater solution to kill any pests.
Let them float or rest in a bucket of water for a few hours to adjust to your local water temperature.
Plant carefully, avoiding root damage, and monitor for any melting or stress symptoms.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
Water plants are generally affordable, especially when bought in sets or combos.
Duckweed/Hyacinth: ₹30–₹100
Vallisneria/Anacharis: ₹60–₹200
Water Lilies/Lotus: ₹150–₹500 depending on variety and size
Combo Packs: Great value for beginners
Always compare prices, but don’t compromise on plant quality.
Best Water Plants to Start With (Beginner-Friendly Picks)
Duckweed: Fast-growing, natural filter
Amazon Frogbit: Attractive and low-maintenance
Vallisneria: Hardy and great for beginners
Hornwort: Excellent oxygenator
Water Lily (mini varieties): Stunning for balcony or small ponds
Where to Buy the Best Water Plants Online?
There are hundreds of sellers online — but only a few specialize in quality, healthy, nursery-grown aquatic plants with gardener-friendly pricing and packaging.
That’s why we recommend buying from Paudhewale — India’s trusted online nursery for floating, rooted, and ornamental water plants.
Why Buy from Paudhewale?
✅ Wide variety of freshwater and pond plants
✅ Plants grown with expert care
✅ Moisture-sealed packaging for safe delivery
✅ Transparent pricing and fast shipping
✅ Perfect for gardeners, hobbyists, and eco-conscious buyers
Ready to transform your aquarium or pond into a thriving aquatic paradise? Shop now at Paudhewale and bring home healthy, vibrant water plants delivered to your doorstep.