Plants in genus eleocharis
Eleocharis montevidensis
Eleocharis montevidensis is a coastal plant native to the Americas, thriving in moist, sandy environments. This rhizomatous perennial forms tufts or mats of firm stems up to 20 inches tall, with dark purplish or reddish-brown leaves at the base. It is sometimes cultivated as an aquatic plant.
Eleocharis acicularis
Eleocharis acicularis, commonly known as needle spikerush, is a versatile aquatic plant found in marshes and bogs worldwide. It forms dense carpets with needle-like leaves and is ideal for natural-style aquascaping. The plant thrives in moderate to high light and CO2-rich environments, providing excellent cover for baby fish.
Eleocharis parvula
Eleocharis parvula is a popular foreground aquarium plant that creates a grass-like lawn with its thin, bright green blades. It spreads horizontally by runners and can grow both submerged and emersed. High lighting and CO2 injection promote its growth, and it requires frequent pruning to maintain its appearance. This easy-care plant thrives in medium to high light conditions.
Eleocharis vivipara
Eleocharis vivipara, commonly known as Giant or Umbrella Hairgrass, is a popular background plant for aquariums. It features tall, slender stems that create a canopy effect as they fold over. This hardy plant thrives in medium to high light conditions and benefits from CO2 injection to encourage growth. It can reach heights of 12 to 16 inches and grows via runners, making it easy to propagate. Native to the southern United States, it adapts well to various freshwater conditions and adds a jungle-like aesthetic to aquariums. The plant is known for its swaying effect in water currents and requires occasional trimming to maintain its appearance.
Eleocharis acicularis 'Mini'
Eleocharis acicularis 'Mini', also known as the shortest growing hair grass, is a popular aquarium plant for creating a dense, lush lawn effect. It features compact, short leaves that curl downward in high light and nutrient-rich environments. This plant propagates via runners and is ideal for foreground placement in aquariums. It thrives with medium to high lighting and benefits from CO2 supplementation, although it is not strictly necessary. Its ease of care and carpet-forming ability make it a favorite among aquarists.
Eleocharis pusilla
Eleocharis pusilla, commonly known as Hair Grass, is a grass-like sedge native to Australia. It grows to about 2-6 inches tall and produces white flowers. This plant is adaptable to various freshwater conditions and can grow submerged or emerged. It forms a dense carpet and propagates through runners.
Eleocharis tuberculosa 'Maple Hill'
Eleocharis tuberculosa 'Maple Hill' is a native plant found from coastal Maine to Texas, thriving in moist, boggy soils. It forms evergreen clumps resembling fine-textured carex, reaching 3.5 feet wide and 10 inches tall. The plant features tiny, dangling brown pine cone-like structures at the leaf tips, adding unique visual interest.
Eleocharis exigua
Eleocharis exigua, commonly known as rooted spikerush, is an aquatic or semi-aquatic plant native to the Americas. It grows in wet areas like streams and bogs, forming a mat of tiny green spikes about 3 inches tall. This rhizomatous perennial is suitable as a lawn substitute in wet depressions and is compatible with bog plants like pitcher plants. Its ability to thrive in wet conditions makes it a valuable addition to rain gardens.