Lindernia Variegated (Watermellon)

You will receive a bundle of freshly harvested Lindernia Rotundifolia "Variegated" stems, packed to arrive healthy and ready to plant.

Lindernia Rotundifolia "Variegated" is one of the most charming and detailed stem plants available, earning its popular nickname "Watermelon Plant" for the small, round, bright green leaves traced with delicate cream and white striping. Clustered together, the variegated foliage creates an interwoven mosaic of color and pattern that adds genuine visual intrigue to a planted tank — a refreshing change of pace from solid-colored stem plants. Unlike many stem plants that grow leggy and bare toward the base, this species produces numerous side shoots along its length, naturally filling in to create a dense, bushy planting without constant trimming.

✦ What you're getting
Stems are available in bundles of 5, 10, or 15. All stems are grown emersed, arriving with developed roots that anchor quickly and transition to submersed growth with vigor. Expect new submersed leaf growth within 1–2 weeks of planting.

✦ Care at a glance
• Difficulty: Easy
• Lighting: Low to medium (adapts well; variegation holds up even in lower-light setups)
• CO₂: Not required, but supports faster growth and more vibrant variegation
• Fertilizer: Benefits from liquid ferts and a nutrient-rich substrate
• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Placement: Mid to background

✦ A note on variegation
This plant occasionally produces fully green shoots that lack the characteristic cream and white striping. This is a normal part of how variegated plants grow — simply trim and remove any solid green growth if you want to maintain a fully variegated appearance over time. Stronger light and good nutrient availability generally help preserve more consistent variegation.

✦ Growth & propagation
Lindernia Rotundifolia "Variegated" is a fast, easy grower that naturally branches into dense, bushy stems thanks to its tendency to produce numerous side shoots — a trait that sets it apart from many other stem plants. Trim tops and replant cuttings directly into the substrate to propagate; they root readily and establish within days. Because it self-branches so well, it fills in a planting area faster than many comparable species.

✦ Shipping & live arrival
All orders are shipped via USPS Ground Mail Monday through Thursday. Orders are held on weekends, holidays, and holiday weekends to ensure safe arrival. Cool packs are included at no additional charge as needed based on weather. Heat packs are available upon request for an additional fee. Upgrades to USPS Priority Mail are available upon request. Ships across the US and all US territories. Customers are responsible for providing an accurate shipping address.