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Elatine hydropiper
AdvancedElatine hydropiper
Adorable tiny round-leaved foreground plant. Even smaller than Glossostigma, creating a delicate green carpet. Needs high light and CO2 but looks great in compact tanks.
About
Elatine hydropiper is a small aquatic plant in the family Elatinaceae, widely distributed across Eurasia. With very small leaves, it spreads along the substrate to form a green carpet under sufficient lighting and CO2, and is therefore used as a foreground plant. Its use is similar to plants like Glossostigma, but it is finer and a brighter green. Strong lighting, CO2 injection, and a nutrient-rich substrate are essential for healthy creeping growth; without the right conditions it grows upward and leggy or melts. With demanding requirements and a need for stable conditions, it suits advanced hobbyists. It spreads via runner-like growth, and frequent trimming maintains a dense carpet. It prefers soft, slightly acidic to neutral water.
Size of the Elatine hydropiper
The Elatine hydropiper grows to 0.5-2cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Elatine hydropiper
The ideal temperature for the Elatine hydropiper is 18〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Eurasia (Europe to Asia)
Size
0.5-2cm
Temperature
18〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
CO2 required + liquid fert + root tabs
Growing Tips
Lighting
High light essential. Grows upward under low light
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 injection is essential. Use a nutrient-rich substrate plus liquid fertiliser; if any condition is missing it grows upright or melts.
Substrate & Attachment
A fine-grained nutrient soil is ideal. Its tiny leaves creep along the ground, so let it root in a fine substrate.
Water Temperature & Quality
Prefers a water temperature of 18-26°C and slightly acidic to neutral soft water. It is demanding, so keep the water quality stable.
Trimming & Propagation
It spreads by runners to form a carpet. Frequent trimming maintains a dense carpet.
Notes
Very slow growing. Patience required
Elatine hydropiper FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Elatine hydropiper?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Elatine hydropiper?
The ideal temperature for Elatine hydropiper is 18〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Elatine hydropiper get?
The mature size of Elatine hydropiper is 0.5-2cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Elatine hydropiper?
Elatine hydropiper: watering & fertilizer — CO2 required + liquid fert + root tabs. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Elatine hydropiper?
The price of Elatine hydropiper varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (Invasive Species Act) / CITES Appendix II listed plant taxa (family and genus level)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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