Scientific Name: Eleocharis parvula
Common Name: Dwarf Hairgrass
Origin: Cosmopolitan (found across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia)
Growth Rate: Moderate
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperature: 18–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
GH: 2–12 dGH
KH: 1–8 dKH
Moderate to high lighting is recommended.
Strong lighting promotes dense, compact growth and faster spreading.
Under low light, growth may become sparse and elongated.
CO₂ supplementation is recommended for optimal growth.
Encourages quicker carpet formation and healthier foliage.
Can grow without CO₂, but growth will be slower and less dense.
Benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate.
Requires a steady supply of macro and micronutrients.
Root fertilization supports healthy root development and vigorous growth.
Regular nutrient dosing helps maintain lush green coloration.
Best suited for the foreground.
Commonly used as a carpeting plant.
Creates a natural grassland effect across the aquarium floor.
Propagated through runners.
Produces daughter plants that spread horizontally through the substrate.
Gradually forms dense carpets under favorable conditions.
Plant in small clumps with spacing to encourage rapid spreading.
Trim occasionally to maintain a neat and uniform carpet.
Ensure good light penetration to the lower portions of the plant.
Stable water conditions and nutrient availability promote healthy growth.
Eleocharis parvula is a highly popular carpeting plant known for its fine, grass-like leaves and natural appearance. It forms lush green lawns that closely resemble underwater meadows, making it a favorite choice for Nature, Iwagumi, and biotope aquascapes. Its delicate texture provides a beautiful contrast to rocks, driftwood, and broad-leaved plants while enhancing depth and realism within the aquarium. With proper care, it develops into a dense, vibrant carpet that creates a striking and natural-looking foreground.
