More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 27°C / 80.60°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 5-15 kh |
| pH Value | 6-8 ph |
| Light | high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 10-40mg/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
Saururus cernuus, commonly known as lizard's tail, is a herbaceous bog plant found in the eastern and southeastern regions of the USA. It typically grows in shallow water zones of ditches, ponds, bogs, and rivulets. While it is primarily found in its emersed form in nature, it is cultivated as a submersed plant in aquariums.
Aquarium Suitability
This plant is suitable for aquariums and is frequently available commercially. It is categorized as a stem plant and is known for its slow growth rate, making it ideal for midground and foreground placements. Saururus cernuus thrives in setups with high light intensity, a constant CO2 supply, and the addition of necessary nutrients like nitrate, phosphate, and micronutrients for optimal growth.
Demands and Hardiness
Saururus cernuus is considered to have medium difficulty in terms of care requirements. It tolerates a wide range of temperatures (4-27°C) and can thrive in waters with a pH range of 6-8. It is known to tolerate colder temperatures and requires moderate carbonate hardness levels (5-15°) in the water.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquariums, Saururus cernuus can be used as a semi-emersed plant for open tanks, as well as in the midground or foreground. Its large heart-shaped leaves make it a visually striking addition to planted tanks, especially when used to create dense plant streets or as a contrast against fine-leaved species like Eleocharis.
Propagation
Propagation of Saururus cernuus can be done through runners or cuttings. Lateral shoots or runners can be cut into small pieces and allowed to float in the water to develop new plantlets. Additionally, top cuttings obtained during plant trimming can be replanted in the substrate to grow into new plants, allowing for rapid and easy propagation.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, Saururus cernuus is commonly found in wetland areas in the USA. It has a straight submersed growth habit and can quickly break the water surface if allowed to grow upwards. The plant forms subterranean runners that spread rapidly, making it important to control its growth in suitable environments.