Cryptocoryne × willisii is a plant in the family Araceae.
Synonyms Cryptocoryne nevillii (a valid but different species); C. lucens is now considered a hybrid in the C. × willisii complex
Taxonomy In 1976 Niels Jacobsen proposed the change of name of C. nevillii to C. × willisii. This plant is a natural hybrid, so the name is spelt with a cross: C. × willisii. Crypts page C. nevillii
Distribution Sri Lanka (Kandy area)
Description The leaves and even the spathe of this plant are variable (no doubt due to its hybrid nature). The crypts page (see link below) illustrate a number of different forms which makes identification difficult. Cryptocoryne × willisi is a smaller member of the genus along with Cryptocoryne parva, and may only reach up to 5cm in size.
Cultivation Not difficult to grow and common in aquariums but some forms do not seem to flower.
References Alston, A.H.G., 1938. Cryptocoryne in: The Kandy Flora : 68, fig.363-367 (with some drawings). Jacobsen, N., 1987. Cryptocoryne in: A Revised Handbook to the Flora of Ceylon, Vol. VI: 85-99 Wit, H.C.D.de, 1969. Cryptocoryne nevillii Trim. ex Hook.f.. Het Aquarium 39(11) : 242-245.
External links Crypts pages C. undulata Tropica AquaHobby