Sagittaria subulata 'Pusilla'

Sagittaria subulata 'Pusilla' is the most compact form of the already diminutive S. subulata, selected for leaves that remain extremely short — typically 2–5 cm — under moderate to bright light. This makes it one of the very few carpeting plants that does not require CO2 injection or very high light to maintain a low, dense growth habit. It spreads by runners just as S. subulata does, forming a dense, bright-green lawn that suits nano aquariums, shrimp tanks, and the foreground of larger planted layouts. Its tolerance of hard water and brackish conditions adds to its versatility, and it requires only minimal fertilisation to thrive.

Light: Medium (30–60 PAR); bright light is key to maintaining the miniature carpet stature. CO2: Beneficial; supplementation helps maintain the lowest possible carpet height. Fertilisation: Light root tabs every 4 months; dilute liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks. Placement: Foreground carpet in nano or community tanks; plant densely at 2 cm spacing for quick coverage. Propagation: Runners spread freely; thin regularly to prevent overcrowding and maintain carpet density.