Needle spikerush: a dense aquatic lawn for aquariums or ponds
L'Eleocharis acicularis, or needle spikerush, is one of the few plants that can mimic the look of a real lawn underwater. It is hardy, carpet-forming, and oxygenating, ideal for a natural aquarium or pond.
What is Eleocharis acicularis?
Fully amphibious plant: grows just as well underwater as on the banks
Ultra-fine, intensely green foliage that forms a very dense grassy carpet
Rapid spread thanks to underground runners growing in all directions
Oxygenates the water when submerged, playing a key ecological role in natural bodies of water
Hardy down to -10°C or even lower when submerged
It is often used as a foreground plant in aquariums or as ground cover in ponds, and fits perfectly into any low-tech system.
Benefits of Eleocharis acicularis in a natural aquarium
- Highly sought-after realistic "lawn"-like appearance in aquascaping
- Naturally oxygenates the tank when submerged
- Protection for fish eggs, which fish cannot reach in the heart of the leaves
- Easy to propagate by division or runners
- Not eaten by goldfish or herbivorous fish
- Perennial, survives winter underwater
How do you care for Eleocharis acicularis?
- 🌱 Planting: in clumps, in sand or natural soil
- ☀️ Lighting: medium to intense for a low, compact growth habit
- 🔄 Propagation: by dividing clumps or through the natural spread of runners
- 📏 Depth: 0 to 40 cm
- ✂️ Pruning: entirely optional; height varies depending on immersion
Tips for using Eleocharis acicularis
Ideal for:
- Low-tech aquarium foreground
- Pond spawning area for goldfish or breeding tank
- Outdoor tub pond with natural substrate, even in winter
Pair it with: Java moss, dwarf sagittaria, shoreweed, or a superb lobelia rising from this green carpet
For faster coverage: separate and redistribute the clumps from time to time
FAQ - Eleocharis acicularis
Can Eleocharis acicularis grow out of water?
Yes, it is a fully amphibious plant. It also grows along damp banks.
Can it stay outdoors over winter?
Yes. It is fully perennial and hardy.
Does it spread quickly?
Yes, thanks to its runners, it spreads naturally to form a superb carpet.
Does it need pruning?
No, there is no need. It can reach 5 to 50 cm depending on immersion.
Is it eaten by goldfish?
No. Its leaves are too fine and tough, so they are not very appealing to them.
Additional information
Scientific name: Eleocharis acicularis
Height: 5 to 50 cm depending on immersion conditions
Packaging: sold as a clump (approximate weight 10 g)
Guarantee: contains no rock wool or artificial substrate
Recommendation: do not release into the wild, even though it is not classified as invasive
