Eleocharis Vivipara

Eleocharis vivipara, commonly known as viviparous hairgrass, is a tall and graceful aquatic grass known for its fine, hair-like leaves and unique propagation method through vivipary—producing plantlets directly on the parent stem. Native to North and Central America, this species is favored in aquascaping for its vertical growth and gentle, flowing texture, which adds a natural, grassy element to the aquarium background.

In aquascaping, Eleocharis vivipara is ideal for background placement due to its long, slender stems that can reach 30–60 cm (12–24 inches) or more under ideal conditions. It sways gently with water movement, creating dynamic motion in the aquascape. Its delicate green coloration contrasts beautifully with broader-leaved or red-stemmed plants, adding height without visual heaviness. The plant’s viviparous nature allows new shoots to develop on the ends of its leaves, which can be replanted or left for a wild, natural effect.

This species thrives under moderate to high lighting and does best with CO₂ supplementation, though it can grow in low-tech setups with slower development. A nutrient-rich substrate supports root growth, but much of its nutrient uptake occurs through the water column, making liquid fertilization beneficial as well.

Care is relatively easy, but due to its height and rapid vertical growth, regular trimming is recommended to prevent overshadowing smaller plants. The plantlets that develop on leaf tips can be gently removed and replanted to expand the carpet or thicken the background stand.

Care Tips:

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate supports healthy root growth.

• Lighting: Moderate to high; promotes upright growth and healthy leaf tips.

• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Nutrients: Medium to high; responds well to water column fertilization.

• Propagation: Produces plantlets (vivipary) on leaf tips; also spreads via runners.

Growth: Moderate to fast
Lighting: Moderate to high
Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
pH: 6.5–7.5
Nutrients: Medium to high
Difficulty: Easy to intermediate