Safe, Stunning, and Perfect for Your Betta’s Tank
Betta fish are bold, beautiful, and packed with personality. But to really thrive, they need more than just a plastic castle and some gravel. Live aquatic plants can turn your betta tank into a lush underwater paradise that supports your fish’s natural behaviors. Bahviors like hiding, resting, exploring, and even bubble-nesting.
Whether you’re new to betta keeping or just want to upgrade your current tank, here are some of the best aquatic plants for betta fish and why they deserve a spot in your setup.
Why Use Live Plants in a Betta Tank?
Live aquarium plants offer benefits that plastic decorations simply can’t match:
- Improved Water Quality: Live plants absorb excess nutrients and help balance ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates.
- Natural Enrichment: Bettas love weaving through plants, resting on leaves, and building bubble nests in dense growth.
- Oxygenation & Filtration: Plants naturally oxygenate your tank and reduce algae by competing for nutrients.
- Better Aesthetics: A planted tank just looks better and your betta will love you for it!
Top 6 Plants for Bettas (Beginner-Friendly Picks)
Here are some safe, easy-to-grow plants that pair perfectly with bettas (no fancy equipment or green thumb required).
1. Anubias nana
Anubias is practically bulletproof. This hardy plant doesn’t need much light and can be attached to driftwood, rocks, or decor.
- Why Bettas Love It: Broad leaves are perfect for resting and hiding.
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Planting Tip: Don’t bury the rhizome! The rhizome needs to breathe and it will rot if buried beneath the substrate. Instead, tie it to hardscape like rock or driftwood.
2. Java Fern
Another classic. Java Fern thrives in low-light tanks and looks great with bettas. Like anubias, it is a very hardy plant and forgiving for beginners.
- Why Bettas Love It: Creates a jungle-like feel without overcrowding the tank.
- Planting Tip: Like Anubias, it should be attached to wood or rock. Don't bury the rhizome or else the plant will not survive.
- Great for: 5-10 gallon setups or nano tanks.
3. Amazon Frogbit
If you want a floating plant that adds shade and absorbs excess nutrients, Frogbit is a great betta-safe option.
- Why Bettas Love It: Bettas love building bubble nests under the trailing roots.
- Caution: Best to avoid too much surface agitation, as this can bother floating plants.
4. Cryptocoryne wendtii
This rooted plant is great for mid-ground areas and provides thick, leafy cover.
- Why Bettas Love It: Dense foliage makes them feel safe and secure.
- Bonus: Crypts are slow-growing and undemanding, perfect for beginners.
5. Brazilian Pennywort
Pennywort can be planted or floated. It's fast-growing and versatile. It has big loft leaves that bettas enjoy swimming through and they help clean the water, removing excess nitrates.
- Why Bettas Love It: Provides shelter and shade, which helps reduce stress.
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Maintenance: Occasional trimming helps prevent overgrowth in smaller tanks.
6. Java Moss
Java moss is among the most beginner-friendly plants you will find. A great natural water filter. Attached to a hardscape by way of thread or aquarium safe glue.
- Why Bettas Love It: Fun to interact with and help absorb nitrates.
- Bonus: Low effort, low mess.
Want to Keep It Simple?
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Tips for Keeping Betta Plants Healthy
- Use a gentle filter: Bettas and floating plants both prefer calm water. High water flow can cause stress for both betta and plants.
- Choose low-light plants: Bettas don’t need intense lighting, and neither do most beginner plants.
- Fertilize occasionally: Liquid fertilizer helps rooted plants grow, especially in bare-bottom tanks.
Final Thoughts
Live plants aren’t just for looks, they’re a key part of a healthy betta setup. Whether you go with floating Frogbit or leafy Anubias, your betta will benefit from the comfort, cover, and clean water they provide.
Ready to get started? Browse our collection of Betta Fish Safe Aquatic Plants.