Purple Nephthea Tree Coral

About this coral

Purple Nephthea Tree Coral is a soft coral in the genus Nephthea, commonly sold as a “tree coral” due to its branching, upright growth form. In a reef aquarium, it’s used for ornamental value and to add organic texture to live rock while contributing to the tank’s natural nutrient cycling. Group-level care focuses on providing stable, reef-quality water, gentle to moderate circulation, and appropriate lighting for soft corals.

Features:

• Branching, tree-like soft-coral growth that adds structure to live rock aquascapes
• Soft corals like Nephthea generally benefit from stable water conditions rather than frequent changes
• Typically prefers moderate light and steady, non-blasting water movement
• More reliable results come from choosing an established spot—avoid frequent re-positioning
• Many Nephthea corals can accept suspended foods and benefit from regular reef feeding (dose according to product guidance)
• Reef-safe tank stability (especially salinity, alkalinity, and calcium) helps support long-term health

Specifications:

• Scientific group (confirmed): Nephthea sp. (soft coral)
• Care level (general guidance): Beginner-friendly to intermediate, mainly requiring stable reef water
• Lighting (general guidance): Moderate light
• Water flow (general guidance): Gentle to moderate, avoid direct blasting
• Placement (general guidance): Attach/secure to live rock or an aquascape area where it won’t be knocked
• Temperature (general reef range): About 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity (general reef target): ~1.025–1.026 specific gravity
• pH (general reef target): ~8.1–8.4
• Alkalinity (general reef target): ~7–11 dKH
• Calcium (general reef target): ~400–450 ppm
• Magnesium (general reef target): ~1250–1350 ppm