Dennerle Eleocharis Vivipara

Eleocharis vivipara, commonly called Umbrella Hairgrass or Viviparous Spike Rush, is a sedge species from North and South America that grows in shallow water and waterlogged margins. Unlike Eleocharis parvula (Dwarf Hairgrass) which forms a short, dense lawn, E. vivipara grows tall — reaching 30–60 cm — and produces long, thread-like stems that arch gracefully outward from a central point, creating an elegant, umbrella-like silhouette.

In the aquarium, Eleocharis vivipara is an elegant background or mid-background plant that creates a soft, flowing texture unlike most other aquatic plants. Under strong light, each cluster produces multiple stems that arch outward, and the plant reproduces by producing viviparous (live young) daughter plants along the stem tips — an unusual reproductive adaptation reflected in its species name.

This plant is more tolerant than many hairgrass species, adapting to a range of light levels and water conditions. It grows without CO2 in low-tech setups, though CO2 produces faster and more lush growth. It is suitable for mid to background placement in medium to large aquariums where its tall, graceful form can be appreciated.

Dennerle produces this plant as a high-quality stem specimen, typically sold as bunches of multiple stems.

Light: Low to medium-high light (15–60 PAR). Grows in moderate light without CO2 but fuller growth requires stronger light.

CO2: Optional but beneficial. CO2 injection (15–20 mg/L) produces denser, more robust growth.

Substrate: Grows in most substrates. Root tabs or nutrient-rich substrate improve long-term performance.

Placement: Mid to background plant. Allow space for the arching stems — plant in clusters of 3–5 stems at least 10–15 cm from neighboring plants. Effective as a standalone focal point.

Propagation: Self-propagating by producing daughter plantlets along stem tips. Detach daughters and replant when they develop roots.

Maintenance: Moderate. Trim dead or yellowing stems. Manage daughter plants as they proliferate.

Water Parameters: pH 5.5–8.0, temperature 18–28°C. Adaptable.