Contents
Description
Restio Eleocharis, also known as Water Zebra Rush, is a water plant that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to Africa and can be found in countries like South Africa and Mozambique. It is a perennial plant that grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a clumping growth habit. Restio Eleocharis is popularly used in ornamental water gardens and backyard ponds due to its unique appearance and easy care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Cyperaceae |
| Genus | Eleocharis |
Appearance
Restio Eleocharis has long, narrow leaves that are green in color and can grow up to 1 meter long. Its stems are thin and upright, with a brownish-purple color. The plant produces small, brown flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the stems. Restio Eleocharis has a unique appearance that adds an interesting touch to any water garden or pond.
Care Guide
Restio Eleocharis is an easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Restio Eleocharis needs to be grown in water. Keep the water level at around 10-25 cm above the soil level.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a water-soluble fertilizer.
- Soil: Restio Eleocharis prefers a sandy soil that is rich in nutrients.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to grow well. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not thrive in low light conditions.
- Hardiness Zones: Restio Eleocharis is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Restio Eleocharis is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases like root rot if it is grown in poorly-drained soil. To prevent fungal diseases, make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
Restio Eleocharis is native to Africa and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and along riverbanks. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions, including full sun and shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Restio Eleocharis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Restio Eleocharis can be grown in a container as long as it is placed in water and fertilized regularly.
Q: Can Restio Eleocharis be grown in a pond with fish?
A: Yes, Restio Eleocharis is safe to grow in a pond with fish. It can even provide a hiding place for small fish.
Q: How often should Restio Eleocharis be fertilized?
A: Restio Eleocharis should be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a water-soluble fertilizer.
Q: How often should Restio Eleocharis be watered?
A: Restio Eleocharis should be grown in water, and the water level should be kept at around 10-25 cm above the soil level.
Related Plants
- Eleocharis acicularis (Dwarf Hairgrass)
- Eleocharis dulcis (Chinese Water Chestnut)
- Eleocharis montevidensis (Giant Hairgrass)
- Eleocharis vivipara (Umbrella Hairgrass)
References
- “Eleocharis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c400.
- “Restio Eleocharis.” Aquatic Plant Central, aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/plantfinder/details.php?id=174.
- “Restio Eleocharis.” Gardeners’ World, www.gardenersworld.com/plants/restio-eleocharis/.
