More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 18°C / 64.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 2-30 kh |
| pH Value | 5-9 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 5-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Sagittaria subulata, commonly known as Awl-leaf arrowhead, originates from the eastern United States and South America. It is a popular aquarium plant that can grow in both fresh and brackish water environments. This plant is easy to cultivate, requiring moderate light and tolerating hard alkaline water. It spreads rapidly by runners and can form a dense carpet in a short time.
Aquarium Suitability
Sagittaria subulata is very easy to care for and is suitable for aquarists of all levels. It is frequently available commercially and can be found in trade among aquarists. The plant is known to be fast-growing and can thrive without CO2 injection, although the addition of CO2 enhances its growth significantly.
Demands and Hardiness
This plant is adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, preferring temperatures between 18-28°C. It can tolerate varying light intensities, from low to high, and requires nutrients such as nitrate, phosphate, potassium, iron, and trace elements for optimal growth. Iron deficiencies may manifest as yellow discoloration of the leaves.
Aquascaping & Usage
Sagittaria subulata can be used as a foreground or midground plant in aquariums, forming a grass-like lawn appearance. Its grasslike texture provides a natural look and can accentuate other plant species with different growth habits. When allowed to grow to its full height of up to 60 cm, it can also be used in the background to create vertical structures in the aquascape.
Propagation
Propagation of Sagittaria subulata is primarily through runners. The plant spreads quickly by sending out runners that develop new plantlets, allowing it to carpet the aquarium bottom efficiently.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, Sagittaria subulata can be found in estuaries, growing in vast meadows. There are several varieties of this species, each with its unique characteristics. In Central Europe, one variety of S. subulata can survive outdoors during winter, forming overwintering bulbs on the ends of its runners.