Growing plants in crushed coral substrate. (Java Fern/Vallisneria)?

Hello,

I'm looking to build an African Cichlid tank. I've read extensively on Cichlids and know about the ups and downs of keeping plants with them; that is not what I'm asking about. (please answer me about the crushed coral substrate and the plants.)

I've researched the African lake biotopes and read that two plant types occur naturally with the Cichlids, one being a Vallisneria and the other being the Java Fern. I am wondering if someone has had experience growing these plants in crushed coral substrate. I need the pH to be on the high side (7.5-8.5) and I am concerned that the crushed coral may not be suitable rooting material.

(I've kept aquatic plants before, I had a barb tank when I lived in Canada, but now that I have some experience I'd like to try the brackwater setup, that and I love cichlids...)

An expert in plants would be wonderful. =)

Thanks in advance.