Needle spikerush: a dense aquatic lawn for aquariums or ponds
Eleocharis acicularis, or needle spikerush, is one of the few plants capable of mimicking the appearance of a real lawn underwater. It is hardy, carpet-forming, and oxygenating, making it ideal for a natural aquarium or pond.
What is Eleocharis acicularis?
A fully amphibious plant: grows equally well submerged or along the water's edge
Ultra-fine, deep green foliage forming a very dense carpet
Rapid spread thanks to underground runners growing in every direction
Oxygenates the water when submerged, playing an important 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 ground cover in ponds, and fits perfectly into any low-tech system.
Benefits of Eleocharis acicularis in a natural aquarium
- A realistic, highly sought-after "lawn-like" appearance in aquascaping
- Naturally oxygenates the tank when submerged
- Protection for fish eggs, which fish cannot reach among the leaves
- Easy to propagate by division or spreading
- Not eaten by goldfish or herbivorous fish
- Perennial, withstands winter underwater
How do you care for Eleocharis acicularis?
- 🌱 Planting: in clumps, in sand or natural soil
- ☀️ Lighting: medium to high for a low, compact growth habit
- 🔄 Propagation: by separating clumps or through the natural spread of runners
- 📏 Depth: 0 to 40 cm
- ✂️ Trimming: entirely optional; height varies depending on immersion
Tips for using Eleocharis acicularis successfully
Ideal for:
- Aquarium foreground in a low-tech setup
- Spawning area in a pond for goldfish or in a breeding tank
- Outdoor tub pond with natural substrate, even in winter
Pair it with: Java moss, dwarf sagittaria, shoreweed, or a beautiful lobelia rising 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 fully amphibious plant. It also grows on damp banks.
Can it spend 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 pruning?
No, it is not necessary. It can grow 5 to 50 cm tall depending on immersion.
Do goldfish eat it?
No. Its leaves are too thin and tough, so fish are not very fond of 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
