Viviparous Spike Rush

Eleocharis vivipara

Family : Cyperaceae

PlantFreshwatergazonnante

An unusual carpeting plant that produces plantlets on its stems, hence the name 'viviparous'. It forms airy clumps of medium height.

Viviparous Spike Rush — photo 1 sur 1
(c) Samuel A. Schmid, some rights reserved (CC BY) · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 4.01 / 1
Popularity
Carpet (advanced)
CO₂ + intense light
Availability
Order only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern

Description

Eleocharis vivipara is distinguished by its ability to produce small plantlets at the tips of its stems, which detach and root. Its stems are light green, fine, and upright, reaching 15–30 cm. It spreads both by stolons and by these viviparous plantlets, making propagation easy. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate to high light and tolerates varied conditions. It adds a light, airy texture, ideal for midground or background. Growth is moderate and it requires little maintenance.

Habitat

Region :

Marshes, riverbanks, tropical wetlands

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2028 °C
pH67.5
GH212 °dGH
KH15 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 2 mg/L
CO₂
≤ 20 mg/L
Light
Medium

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Photosynthetic
Min. tank
30 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
30 cm
Lifespan
3 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Stolons

Care notes

Parameters: temperature 20–28°C, pH 6–7.5, GH 2–12, KH 1–5. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 2 mg/L. Moderate to high light (0.3–0.5 W/L), CO2 optional (max 20 mg/L). Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming to control height and remove plantlets if desired. Plantlets can be replanted to expand the carpet. Avoid fish that dig up roots.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References