Marsh Gratiola: rare but so cute, the compact and easy mini-plant
A miniature, bushy, and low-tech plant
Gratiola viscidula is a small rare plant in aquaristics but not demanding, perfect for nano-aquariums as well as natural tanks. It grows slowly, forms tight bushes, and is easy to trim: this results in clean, dense miniature masses, taller than a Littorella but shorter than a Lysimachia. It tolerates a wide temperature range (5 to 28 °C) and also adapts to paludariums or, in mild climates, shallow ponds.
Why choose Gratiola viscidula?
- Very dense mini-bushes: clean look, "aquatic boxwood."
- Slow & controlled growth. Easy to maintain.
- Simple size and cuttings: cut parts root on their own.
- Tolerant of parameters. Low-tech compatible without CO2, filter, or heater.
- Versatile: aquarium, humid paludarium, outdoor (even in winter in mild climates).
- Original fine foliage. Small pointed leaves reminiscent of Provence thyme.
Planting and cultivation tips
- Plant in spaced clumps, then trim occasionally to thicken.
- Light: medium (or strong if a very compact form is desired).
- Substrate: sand or gravel suffice. No technical soil is required.
- CO2 and fertilization: not essential, keeping clear and stable water is more than enough.
- Outdoor: only in areas with mild winters. In cold climates, prefer indoor wintering.
- Paludarium: planting out of water in a humid environment is perfectly possible.
Possible uses of Marsh Gratiola
- Nano-aquariums: structured miniature masses, its small size is wonderful.
- Low-tech aquarium: neat clumps, moderate growth, dense and low bushes.
- Paludarium: compact cushions in humid areas.
- Pond (mild climates): to dress very shallow edges.
FAQ – Gratiola viscidula
Is CO2 needed?
No, it grows very well without CO2. Adding it is completely unnecessary.
How to thicken it?
Cut short, then replant the cuttings: the plant becomes even bushier.
What height does it reach?
About 5 to 20 cm depending on the size maintained and the light.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is easy to maintain despite its rarity, tolerant, and very easy to manage.
Can it be placed in a pond?
Yes, but only in mild climates. Otherwise, it will need to be brought indoors in winter.
Additional information
- Scientific name: Gratiola viscidula
- Plant type: bushy foreground plant
- Light: medium to strong
- Temperature: 5 to 28°C. In an aquarium, or in a pond if it can be brought indoors during winter in cold climates.
- Water: not very sensitive to parameters, but prefers clear water rather than cloudy
- Size: approximately 5 to 20 cm
- Packaging: 1 tuft with roots (indicative weight: 20 g).
- Guarantee: without rock wool or any artificial substrate of any kind.
- Recommendation: as a precautionary principle, please never release this plant into the wild. Our ecosystems are fragile and must be preserved.
