Origin
Eleocharis ovata (Roth) Roemer & J.A. Schultes var. obtusa (Willd.) Kükenth. ex Skottsberg is commonly known as Spikerush. It belongs to the Cyperaceae family and is native to the eastern and central regions of the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Common Names
Eleocharis ovata goes by several common names, including blunt spike-rush, blunt spike rush, and ovate spikerush. It is also known as bog grass, needle spikerush, sand grass, salt-marsh spike rush, and water spike rush.
General Appearance
The plant grows to about 2-3 feet tall and often forms dense colonies in shallow water or marshy areas. It is a perennial herb that has slender, dark-green leaves that are triangular in cross-section, tapering to a sharp point. The stems are slender, round, and smooth, topped with spikelets that are about 1-inch long and light brown. The flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, are small and inconspicuous, with 3 stamens and one pistil.
Uses
Eleocharis ovata is commonly used in wetland restoration projects as a way to prevent soil erosion and protect aquatic habitats. It is also used as a water filtration system. The plant provides shelter and food for a variety of wildlife species, including birds and aquatic insects.
Growth Conditions for Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa
Light: Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa typically grows in moderate to high light conditions. Too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and not develop properly.
Temperature: This plant requires a warmer environment to thrive. It prefers water temperatures between 68-86°F (20-30°C) and air temperatures between 68-82°F (20-28°C).
Water: Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa is an aquatic plant that requires continuously wet soil conditions. It can grow in a variety of aquatic environments, including freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams, as well as in man-made ponds and aquariums.
Soil: This plant prefers nutrient-rich soil, so it is important to use a high-quality substrate when planting it in an aquarium. Sand or gravel can be used as a base layer, followed by a nutrient-rich soil layer on top.
Fertilizer: Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa requires regular fertilization to thrive. Adding a liquid fertilizer to the water column or a slow-release fertilizer to the substrate can help provide the necessary nutrients for this plant to grow and develop.
CO2: CO2 injection is not necessary for the growth and development of Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa, but can help promote its growth and overall health. If CO2 is being added, it is important to monitor the levels and make sure they are not too high, which could harm the plant or other aquatic life in the tank.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated by dividing its root ball and replanting the individual sections. It can also produce runners that can be carefully separated and replanted in other areas of the tank.
Cultivation Methods
E. ovata var. obtusa is a hardy plant that thrives in most aquarium environments. It prefers moderate to bright lighting and a pH range between 6.5 to 7.8. The plant can be grown either emersed or submersed, although submersion is the preferred method for aquariums.
The plant can be propagated through division, where new plantlets form from the existing plant. The propagated portions can then be replanted in another location to allow for a fuller plant cover in the aquarium.
Watering Needs
E. ovata var. obtusa is a submerged plant that needs adequate water circulation for optimal growth and health. The water chemistry is also essential. It requires soft to moderately hard water conditions, with a temperature range between 72°F to 82°F.
Fertilization
The plant primarily feeds on nutrients in the water, but additional fertilizers can help boost growth. The recommended fertilizers for E. ovata var. obtusa are liquid aquarium plant supplements and root tabs. Adding fertilizers at regular intervals will improve the plant's overall health and ensure vibrant growth.
Pruning
E. ovata var. obtusa requires pruning to prevent overgrowth and to maintain a well-manicured aquarium. The plant grows by rhizomatous, which means that the main growth comes from the underground rhizomes that spread over time. Trimming the plant's tips and removing any decaying or damaged portions will ensure a healthy and neat appearance.
Propagation of Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa
Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa, also known as spikerush or dwarf hairgrass, is a popular aquatic plant in the aquarium trade. It is relatively easy to propagate, and there are several methods that can be used to grow new plants from existing ones.
Division
One of the simplest ways to propagate Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa is through division. This is done by separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. To do this, gently uproot the plant and carefully divide it into several smaller clumps. Each clump should have a healthy root system and some green foliage. Plant each new section in a separate pot filled with aquarium soil or substrate and let it establish itself before introducing it to a tank.
Runners
Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa also spreads through runners, which are horizontal stems that grow along the substrate. The runners produce new shoots at various points along their length, allowing the plant to spread quickly. To propagate through runners, allow them to grow until they develop their own root systems and then cut them off from the parent plant. Plant the new sections in separate pots or directly in the tank to establish new plants.
Propagation from seeds
Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa also reproduces through seed production. To propagate from seeds, collect ripe seeds from the parent plant and plant them in a substrate of aquarium soil or loamy soil mixed with sand. The seeds should be scattered over the surface of the soil and lightly pressed down to ensure proper planting. Keep the substrate moist until the seeds germinate, which can take between one to two weeks. Once the seedlings sprout, thin out any weaker specimens to ensure that the strongest ones receive the necessary nutrients.
Disease Management for Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa
Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa is generally a hardy plant species with very few disease problems. However, there are certain diseases that may affect the plant, such as:
- Bacterial Soft Rot: This is a bacterial disease that infects the plant through wounds, causing dark, watery lesions on the plant stems and leaves. It may cause the plant to wilt or even die. To prevent this disease, avoid injuring the plant during cultivation, and remove infected plants immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease causes brown, circular spots with yellow halos on the plant's leaves. To manage this disease, remove all dead plant material from the area and avoid getting water on the plant's leaves. Applying fungicides can also help in preventing the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa
Like most plants, Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa can also face pest problems. Here are some common pests that may affect this plant species:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause severe damage to the plant by stunting its growth and spreading viruses. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These pests feed on the plant's juices and can cause severe damage, making the leaves appear yellowish or bronze. To repel spider mites, spray the plant with water or use insecticidal soaps.
- Scale Insects: These shield-like insects suck on the plant sap, causing the foliage to wilt and drop off. To control scale insects, prune off and destroy infected plant parts, and apply an insecticidal soap solution to the plant.
Regular observation, cleanliness, and removing any infected plants can help manage potential problems in Eleocharis ovata var. obtusa. Practicing integrated pest management, which includes using natural predators and beneficial insects, can also be an effective way to control pests.
