Eriocaulon sp. “Vietnam” is not yet known for a long time in Europe, however it has already proved to be an easy aquarium plant – in contrast to a number of other Eriocaulon rarities in the aquarium hobby. This plant, not yet determined to species, was originally found in the Vietnamese province Thanh Hoa. It is a medium-sized, about 15-30 cm tall Eriocaulon with relatively broad, medium-green, arching leaves, resembling Eriocaulon sp. “Goias”.
This grass-like plant still grows with medium lighting and is even said to be suitable for hard water. However, a nutrient-rich substrate and a not too low CO2 concentration in the water column (at least 20 mg/l) are surely very conducive for its growth. With time, this plant forms a dense “grass tussock” with a number of leaf rosettes and can be divided into several single plants for propagation.
Eriocaulon sp. “Vietnam” can be used in aquascaping similarly to Blyxa japonica – e.g. as a meadow-like stand in the midground, linking the background with low groundcovers in the foreground, or as scattered tufts between hardscape elements. In contrast to similar rosette plants such as Sagittaria subulata or Helanthium bolivianum, it does not develop runners, making its handling easy. This undemanding Eriocaulon surely deserves a wide distribution in the aquarium hobby.
Planting Instructions
- Remove the label
- Remove the rock wool together with the plant from the net pot
- Remove the rock wool from the root system , take care not to break or tear the larger roots while doing this
- Plant the stems using tweezers into the substrate
Transitioning process – emersed to submersed growth in your aquarium
- Provide good water conditions for your plants
- Dose a respectable aquatic fertilizer for your plants , follow the instructions from the manufacturer
- Provide the correct lighting spectrum , based on the plants needs
- Prune dead leaves and stems constantly
- A Co2 system is a good addition into your aquarium for the plants to flourish
- Conduct 20-30% water changed once a week to ensure good water conditions
- Patience is key for the transition to take place
In a few days, after placing your plants in the aquarium you will notice some of the leaves start to melt and fall away.
This means the transition process has started. Please note the plants might look DEAD, but they are fully alive, so do not panic. After a few days you will notice new growth will appear and the plant will fully change its form into submersed growth. Continuous trimming and fertilization is needed for the plants to thrive in your aquarium. All plants have specific needs but if you follow the general instructions on our labels the plant will transition well and will eventually succeed and prosper in your aquarium.