Biosecurity Shipping Limitations apply

Shipping Allowed?

Umbrella Hairgrass is a distinctive freshwater aquarium plant that produces tall, slender green leaves which spread outward near the surface, creating an attractive umbrella-like appearance. It is an excellent choice for creating height and movement in the background of planted aquariums.

Unlike the shorter Hairgrass species commonly used for carpeting, Eleocharis vivipara develops considerably taller growth. Its fine, grass-like leaves can create a dense natural backdrop when planted in groups.

Umbrella Hairgrass is relatively adaptable but performs best under moderate to high lighting with a nutrient-rich substrate. CO₂ supplementation can significantly improve growth and encourage denser, healthier development.

This plant spreads through runners and can gradually form a larger colony when established. Regular trimming can help maintain the desired height and prevent older growth from becoming untidy.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Eleocharis vivipara
• Common Name: Umbrella Hairgrass
• Type: Grass / runner plant
• Family: Cyperaceae
• Origin: North America
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Lighting: Moderate to High
• CO₂: Recommended
• Placement: Background
• Growth Height: Approximately 20–50+ cm
• Water Temperature: 20–28°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate recommended
• Propagation: Runners and daughter plants
• Suitable For: Planted aquariums and aquascapes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Umbrella Hairgrass a carpeting plant?

No. Unlike dwarf hairgrass, Eleocharis vivipara grows considerably taller and is generally used as a background plant.

Does Umbrella Hairgrass require CO₂?

It can survive without injected CO₂, but supplementation is recommended for stronger growth, better density and healthier foliage.

How tall does Umbrella Hairgrass grow?

It can reach approximately 20–50 cm or more under favourable aquarium conditions, making it particularly useful for the background of larger aquariums.

How should it be planted?

Separate the plant into smaller portions and plant them individually with some space between each portion. This allows the runners to spread and establish naturally.

Does it spread?

Yes. It can spread through runners, gradually forming a larger clump or colony.

Can it be trimmed?

Yes. Long or damaged leaves can be trimmed with sharp aquascaping scissors to maintain the desired height and appearance.

Common Mistakes

• Planting it in an unsuitable low-light location.
• Expecting it to remain short like dwarf hairgrass.
• Planting large, tightly packed portions.
• Failing to provide adequate substrate nutrition.
• Neglecting CO₂ when attempting high-energy growth.
• Allowing older leaves to become excessively long and untidy.