Contents
Description
Eleocharis Acuta, commonly known as Needle Spike Rush or Sharp-Edged Spike Rush, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. This aquatic plant is native to North America, Europe, and Asia and is commonly found in shallow waters such as ponds, marshes, and lakeshores. The plant is characterized by its thin, needle-like leaves that grow upright from the stem, giving it a spiky appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Eleocharis |
Appearance
Eleocharis Acuta has a unique appearance due to its thin, needle-like leaves that grow upright from the stem. The leaves are green in color and can grow up to 30cm in length. The stem of the plant can reach up to 60cm in height and is typically light green in color. The plant is also characterized by its small, brown flowers that bloom from the stem in the summer months.
Care Guide
When it comes to caring for Eleocharis Acuta, it is important to keep in mind the following:
- Water: This plant requires constant access to water, as it is an aquatic plant.
- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant.
- Soil: Eleocharis Acuta does not require soil, as it is an aquatic plant.
- Sunlight: This plant requires moderate to high levels of sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Eleocharis Acuta can survive in hardiness zones 5-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
While Eleocharis Acuta is relatively low maintenance, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Some common pests and diseases include:
- Algae: Algae can overgrow and suffocate the plant.
- Snails: Snails can feed on the plant, causing it to weaken and die.
- Fungal Infections: Fungal infections can cause the plant to rot and die.
- Root Rot: Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the water is stagnant.
Habitat
Eleocharis Acuta is native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and is commonly found in shallow waters such as ponds, marshes, and lakeshores. The plant prefers moderate to high levels of sunlight and can survive in hardiness zones 5-11.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eleocharis Acuta easy to care for?
A: Yes, Eleocharis Acuta is relatively low maintenance and easy to care for.
Q: Can Eleocharis Acuta survive in cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Eleocharis Acuta can survive in hardiness zones 5-11, which includes colder temperatures.
Q: Can Eleocharis Acuta be planted in a pond?
A: Yes, Eleocharis Acuta is an aquatic plant and can be planted in a pond.
Q: Is Eleocharis Acuta safe for fish?
A: Yes, Eleocharis Acuta is safe for fish and can provide a natural habitat for them.
Related Plants
- Eleocharis Dulcis
- Eleocharis Parvula
- Eleocharis Acicularis
References
- “Eleocharis Acuta (Sharp-Edged Spike Rush).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b679.
- “Eleocharis Acuta.” Aquatic Plant Central, aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/plantfinder/details.php?id=42.
- “Eleocharis Acuta – Needle Spike Rush.” World of Flowering Plants, worldoffloweringplants.com/eleocharis-acuta-needle-spike-rush/.
