Overview: Eleocharis tenuis (Willd.) J.A. Schultes var. borealis (Svens.) Gleason
Eleocharis tenuis (Willd.) J.A. Schultes var. borealis (Svens.) Gleason is a species of plant commonly known as slender spikerush. It belongs to the family Cyperaceae and is distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. It is a versatile plant that can thrive in various habitats such as wetlands, marshes, and streambanks. This plant has various uses, including as an ornamental plant and for erosion control.
Appearance
Eleocharis tenuis is a grass-like plant that grows in clumps. Its leaves are slender and linear, measuring 2-8 inches long and about 1/8 inch wide. The stems are smooth, triangular, and erect, reaching a height of about 3 inches. The plant's inflorescence is composed of tiny spikelets held on short peduncles, and the flowers are greenish to brownish in color. The plant usually blooms from May to September.
Common Names
The Eleocharis tenuis is commonly known as slender spikerush, northern slender spike-rush, northern spike-rush, and northern creeping spike-rush. Other common names for this plant include creeping spikerush, submersed spikerush, and western spike-rush.
Uses
The Eleocharis tenuis has numerous uses in different industries. Ornamental horticulture uses this plant in landscaping due to its grass-like and attractive appearance. Government agencies use the plant in erosion control as it spreads via underground rhizomes, forming sod mats that help stabilize soil and prevent erosion. Additionally, the plant is a source of food for various wildlife such as birds, muskrats, and deer.
Eleocharis tenuis can also be used in phytoremediation, where it can be planted in wetlands or marsh areas to clean up contaminated soil and water. Since the plant can tolerate saturated soil conditions, it has the ability to absorb and store contaminants such as nitrogen and phosphorus, improving water quality in wetland restoration projects.
Light Requirements
Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis requires moderate to high levels of light for optimal growth and development. It prefers to grow in areas that receive full sun to partial shade, although it can tolerate low light conditions as well.
Temperature Requirements
Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis is adapted to grow in a range of temperatures, although it prefers mild to cool temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 41°F and 77°F (5°C to 25°C), although it can tolerate temperatures as low as 23°F (-5°C) and as high as 86°F (30°C).
Soil Requirements
This plant thrives in a variety of soil types, including sandy loam, clay, and silty soils. It prefers soils with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 and that are rich in organic matter. Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis also prefers moist soil conditions, but it can tolerate temporary flooding and periods of drought.
Cultivation
The Eleocharis tenuis (Willd.) J.A. Schultes var. borealis (Svens.) Gleason plant is relatively easy to cultivate, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. This plant thrives in areas with full to partial sun exposure, making it ideal for placement in east-facing windows or outdoor garden beds with adequate sun exposure. Plant the Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis in well-draining soil with a neutral pH level.
Watering Needs
The Eleocharis tenuis plant requires moderate watering. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not too wet, as the roots may rot if the soil remains too wet for an extended period. Depending on the environment, the plant may require more frequent watering during the hot summer months to prevent the soil from drying out. However, it's important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Eleocharis tenuis (Willd.) J.A. Schultes var. borealis (Svens.) Gleason benefits from regular fertilization, particularly during the growing season. A soluble fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio can be used every two to four weeks to provide essential nutrients that the plant may be lacking. Overfertilizing can damage the plant, so be careful not to apply too much fertilizer at once.
Pruning
Regular pruning of the Eleocharis tenuis plant is not necessary. However, if it becomes too overgrown or unmanageable, it can be trimmed back to a more desirable size. Trim the plant by removing up to one-third of the growth at any given time, and avoid cutting too far into the stem to prevent damage to the plant. If the plant becomes unruly, it can be divided and re-potted to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis
Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis is a hardy plant that is suitable for propagation through several methods. The plant propagates through seeds and vegetative propagation methods like division and cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The plant bears seeds in late summer into early fall, and they are dispersed through water. To propagate through seeds, collect the seed heads when they turn brown and dry. Separate the heads and scatter the seeds in a prepared substrate. Keep the substrate moist and warm for about two weeks for germination to occur. The seedlings should be transplanted into their final locations once they become established.
Propagation through division
Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis is a plant with rhizomes that can easily be divided and propagated. To propagate through division, uproot the plant and separate the rhizomes into smaller segments. Ensure each segment has healthy leaves and roots. Replant the segments in prepared soil and ensure to keep them moist until established. Dividing the plant not only helps to propagate it but also prevents overcrowding and promotes growth.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings involves removing a section of the stem with healthy leaves and planting it in a separate container. The cutting should be at least two inches long and should have healthy, intact leaves. The stem should be buried in moist soil, and the container should be kept in a warm, well-lit area. Ensure to keep the soil moist until the cuttings take root. Transplant the cutting to its final location once established.
Disease Management
Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis is generally a hardy plant and is not prone to many diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by some fungal diseases such as Pythium and Fusarium. The best way to manage these diseases is through prevention by taking some measures;
- Choosing healthy plants and planting them in well-drained soil and proper pH conditions.
- Avoid over-irrigation or water stress to prevent the excess moisture that may attract fungal diseases.
- Proper pruning to enhance good air circulation to reduce humidity levels around the plant.
- Applying fungicides that are recommended for controlling Pythium and Fusarium infections.
Pest Management
Eleocharis tenuis var. borealis is generally pest-free, but it can occasionally be attacked by some insects such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Below are some methods that can help in managing these pests;
- Using insecticidal soaps and oils that are recommended for controlling aphids and mealybugs.
- Using neem oil or pyrethrin-based insecticides to control spider mites.
- Proper maintenance, sanitation, and cultural practices to reduce pest attraction. This includes removing plant debris, pruning the plant to improve good air circulation, and proper irrigation practices.
- Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphids and other small insects, thus reducing pesticide usage.
