Overview
Hair Grass (Eleocharis parvula), commonly called Dwarf Hairgrass, is a popular carpeting plant characterized by fine, hair-like leaves that form a lush green lawn across the substrate. Growing to just 3–10 cm tall, this easy-care plant spreads via runners making it ideal for foreground use in both nano and standard aquariaum.
Key Features
- Compact carpet growth: Stays under 10 cm and quickly forms dense carpets through horizontal runners .
- Easy care: Thrives under medium to high lighting; CO₂ boosts speed but is not essential .
- Hardy conditions: Prefers 21–28 °C, pH 6.5–7.5, moderate GH/KH; tolerant of varied substrates though nutrient-rich base helps .
- Fast spread: Sends runners that establish new shoots, filling gaps and creating an even lawn effect .
- Trimming encouraged: Regular snipping promotes lateral growth and prevents overgrowth .
Specifications
Plant height | 3–10 cm |
---|---|
Lighting | Medium–high (≈0.5–2 W/L) |
CO₂ | Optional, enhances growth |
Temperature | 21–28 °C |
pH | 6.5–7.5 |
Water hardness | GH 4–10 °dGH; KH 0.5–2.5 °dKH |
Propagation | Runners (stolons), trim clippings |
Difficult level | Easy–moderate |
Planting & Care Guide
- Separate small clumps (5–10 stalks) and plant 1–2 cm apart using tweezers .
- Ensure substrate contact with roots; use nutrient-rich soil or root tabs if needed .
- Provide 6–10 hrs of quality light daily; aim for ≥ 2 W/L to maintain strength and color .
- Trim every 2–3 weeks to encourage lateral spread and prevent stem elongation .
- Perform weekly water changes and maintain stable CO₂/fertilizer regime for optimal carpeting .
Benefits in Your Aquarium
- Natural foreground: Creates a serene green lawn that enhances hardscape contrast.
- Fish and shrimp refuge: Offers shelter for fry and foraging surface for bottom dwellers .
- Algae-resistant lawn: Dense growth helps suppress algae when planted under balanced conditions .
- Versatile design element: Suitable for nano tanks, Dutch layouts, Wabi‑Kusa, and Iwagumi styles .
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.