Plants in family eriocaulaceae
Eriocaulon decangulare
Eriocaulon decangulare is a bog-dwelling plant from the Southeast US, featuring fleshy grass-like basal foliage. It produces 10-inch naked flower spikes with white mushroom-like buttons, adding a unique texture to gardens. This plant is propagated from a roadside population in Brunswick County, NC, and thrives in sunny locations, making it a distinctive choice for ornamental grass displays.
Paepalanthus fluviatilis
Paepalanthus fluviatilis, the sole species in the genus Tonina, is a tropical plant native to Central and South America. Known for its unique leaf shape and color, it is used in aquariums but requires specific conditions such as soft, acidic water, high lighting, and CO2 injection to thrive.
Eriocaulon cinereum
Eriocaulon cinereum is a small and attractive pipewort plant that requires softer water and a rich substrate. It thrives under intense lighting and needs CO2 injection for optimal growth. This plant is an excellent addition to the foreground of aquariums, providing a unique texture and appearance. Rarely sold outside the hobbyist marketplace, Eriocaulon cinereum is a prized plant for aquarium enthusiasts. Its slow growth rate and specific care requirements make it a challenging but rewarding plant to cultivate.
Paepalanthus anceps
Paepalanthus anceps is a unique plant native to low, moist ditches and pinelands, known for its tiny, flattened tufts of lily-like foliage. It features narrow antennae that reach 4-5 inches tall, topped with greyish-white fuzz ball flowers. This plant thrives in moist soils and requires good sunlight, making it an excellent choice for container culture. Its adaptability and distinctive appearance make it a fascinating addition to any garden, particularly in settings that mimic its natural habitat. Paepalanthus anceps is also suitable for fairy gardens and other whimsical garden designs. Its ability to attract insects adds ecological value to the garden, supporting local biodiversity. This plant's compact size and unique floral display make it a standout choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of the unusual to their plant collection.
Eriocaulon quinquangulare
This exotic species with red-based leaves is dispersed from Pakistan to Vietnam and found in damp areas. It requires abundant light, a nutrient-dense substrate, and a CO2 source, growing as an emergent plant valuable for paludariums and ripariums.