Plant Profiles

Eleocharis equisetina

Live freshwater plant Eleocharis equisetina - Australian Giant Hairgrass for fish tanks and aquariums Large bunch or portion of aquatic plant Eleocharis equisetina - Australian Giant Hairgrass. Aquarium plant with fast delivery across Australia.
Eleocharis equisetina
Australian Giant Hairgrass
$12.95

Eleocharis equisetina, the Australian Giant Hairgrass, is an interesting hairgrass species that is native to Australia. This plant is perfect for aquarists who want to create a dramatic, tall background in their tanks. As its name suggests, this plant can grow up to a meter tall, which is much taller than other aquarium hairgrass species.

The leaves of Eleocharis equisetina are relatively stiff and point straight up, and if not trimmed, they are able to breach the water surface without breaking. This characteristic also makes it perfect for biotope tanks and ponds, creating a reedy look if left to breach the surface.The submerged form is thinner and more delicate than the emergent form. To keep the plant in this form simply trim the taller leaves down like with other hairgrass species, not letting it reach the surface.

The plant reproduces by sending out runners and can quickly form a dense stand. It prefers a nutrient-rich substrate and high light, and it benefits from regular fertilisation and CO2 injection. While Australian Giant Hairgrass is a beautiful plant, it requires a larger tank to accommodate its height. It can be used as a background plant or as a standalone centerpiece. Its vertical growth can create an interesting contrast with shorter, bushier plants or horizontal growing carpeting plants. It is also a good plant to use in breeding tanks or as a natural shelter for fish fry, as it provides vertical cover for fry to hide in.

Overall, Eleocharis equisetina is a unique native plant that can add an impressive backdrop to an aquarium.

Requirements and information

Temperature:
TropicalWarmCold

Substrate type:
CoarseFine

Substrate nutrients:

Medium

Water nutrients:

Medium

Light demand:

Medium

CO2:

Low

Height:

Very Tall

Growth rate:

Moderate

Growth habit:

Creeping

Difficulty:

Easy

Native to: