Hottonia palustris, the water violet, is a delicate European aquatic plant producing fine, pinnate leaves arranged along tall, branching stems. It is one of the few native European species used in the aquarium hobby and brings a refined, feathery texture to planted layouts that is quite different from the more commonly available tropical stem plants.It is a moderately demanding species, preferring cooler, clear water with medium light and ideally some CO2 supplementation. It can be floated to form surface cover or rooted in a sandy or fine substrate. It tends to do best in unheated or cool-water aquariums rather than tropical set-ups above 22°C.Supplied as an established potted plant, Hottonia palustris suits temperate aquariums, cold water or pond set-ups, and cool planted tanks from 60 litres upward. Its fine, intricate leaf form and graceful stem structure make it a distinctive and beautiful choice for hobbyists who enjoy working with native and temperate plant species.