Needle spikerush: dense aquatic grass for aquariums or ponds
Eleocharis acicularis, or needle spikerush, is one of the few plants capable of imitating the appearance of real grass underwater. It is hardy, carpet-forming, and oxygenating, making it ideal for natural aquariums or ponds.
What is Eleocharis acicularis?
Fully amphibious plant: grows equally well submerged or along the bank
Ultra-fine, intense green foliage forming a very dense grassy carpet
Rapid propagation through underground runners spreading in all directions
Oxygenating when submerged, with a strong and central 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
- Realistic, lawn-like grassy appearance highly sought after in aquascaping
- Natural oxygenation of the aquarium when submerged
- Protection for fish eggs, which fish cannot reach among the leaves
- Easy reproduction through division or propagation
- Not grazed by goldfish or herbivorous fish
- Perennial and able to withstand winter underwater
How do you care for Eleocharis acicularis?
- 🌱 Planting: in a clump, in sand or natural soil
- ☀️ Lighting: medium to intense for a low, compact growth habit
- 🔄 Propagation: by separating clumps or through the natural spread of runners
- 📏 Depth: from 0 to 40 cm
- ✂️ Trimming: entirely optional; height varies depending on immersion
Tips for using Eleocharis acicularis effectively
Ideal for:
- Foreground of a low-tech aquarium
- Spawning area in ponds for goldfish or breeding tanks
- Outdoor tub aquarium with natural soil, even in winter
Pair it with: Java moss, dwarf sagittaria, littorella, or a beautiful lobelia emerging from this green carpet
For faster coverage: separate and spread out the clumps from time to time
FAQ - Eleocharis acicularis
Can Eleocharis acicularis grow out of water?
Yes, it is a completely amphibious plant. It also grows along damp banks.
Can it survive the winter outdoors?
Yes. It is fully perennial and hardy.
Does it spread quickly?
Yes, thanks to its runners, it spreads naturally to form a beautiful carpet.
Does it need to be trimmed?
No, it is not necessary. It can reach 5 to 50 cm depending on immersion.
Do goldfish eat it?
No. Its leaves are too fine and tough, making them unappealing to goldfish.
Additional information
Scientific name: Eleocharis acicularis
Height: 5 to 50 cm depending on immersion conditions
Packaging: sold in a clump (indicative weight 10 g)
Guarantee: free of rock wool and artificial substrate
Recommendation: do not release into the wild, even though it is not classified as invasive
