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Description
Eriocaulon Setaceum, commonly known as the needle spikerush, is an aquatic plant native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. This plant belongs to the family Eriocaulaceae, which comprises around 1,200 species of flowering plants.The needle spikerush is a popular choice for aquariums and water gardens due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. It is a grass-like plant that can grow up to 20 inches tall and 8 inches wide. The stem is thin and wiry, and the leaves are narrow and pointed. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom on long stalks that rise above the foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Eriocaulaceae |
| Genus | Eriocaulon |
Appearance
The needle spikerush has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other aquatic plants. The stem is thin and wiry, and it grows in a dense clump. The leaves are narrow and pointed, and they can be up to 6 inches long. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom on long stalks that rise above the foliage.This plant is a great addition to aquariums and water gardens because it adds texture and interest to the overall design. It can be used as a foreground or mid-ground plant, and it pairs well with other aquatic plants, such as Java moss and Anubias.
Care Guide
The needle spikerush is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plants healthy:
Water: The needle spikerush prefers to grow in shallow water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of water hardness, but it prefers soft to moderately hard water.
Fertilization: This plant does not require regular fertilization, but it will benefit from occasional doses of liquid fertilizer or root tabs.
Soil: The needle spikerush can be planted in gravel or sand substrate. It does not require any special soil additives or substrates.
Sunlight: This plant prefers moderate to high light levels. It can tolerate low light, but it will grow slowly and may become leggy.
Hardiness Zones: The needle spikerush is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures, so it should be brought indoors if you live in a colder climate.
Common Pests & Diseases
The needle spikerush is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to algae growth if the water quality is poor. To prevent algae growth, make sure the water is clean and well-filtered, and avoid overfeeding your fish.
Habitat
The needle spikerush is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in shallow water, marshes, and wetlands. It is often found in slow-moving streams and ponds, and it can tolerate both stagnant and flowing water.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the needle spikerush grow in brackish water?
A: No, the needle spikerush prefers freshwater and cannot tolerate brackish water.
Q: How fast does the needle spikerush grow?
A: The growth rate of the needle spikerush can vary depending on the growing conditions, but it typically grows slowly.
Q: Can the needle spikerush be grown emersed?
A: Yes, the needle spikerush can be grown emersed, but it will require high humidity and regular misting to prevent the leaves from drying out.
Q: Does the needle spikerush produce runners?
A: No, the needle spikerush does not produce runners.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Eriocaulon Cinereum
- Eriocaulon Quinquangulare
- Eriocaulon Aquaticum
References
- https://www.aquariumplants.com/Eriocaulon_Setaceum_p/100-1.htm
- https://www.aquasabi.com/Eriocaulon-setaceum
- https://www.plantedtank.net/threads/eriocaulon-setaceum.90108/
