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Eleocharis Pusilla Mini In Vitro (Tropica) – Fine Carpeting Foreground Aquarium Plant
 
Eleocharis pusilla ‘Mini’ In Vitro is a delicate, fine-leaved carpeting plant ideal for creating a natural grass-like foreground. Supplied in Tropica’s sterile tissue culture format, it is completely free from pests and algae, making it perfect for shrimp tanks and high-end aquascapes. Under good lighting and CO2, it forms a soft, dense carpet with a natural flow.
 
KEY BENEFITS
Ultra-fine grass-like texture for a natural aquascape look
100% pest-free and algae-free tissue culture plant
Forms a soft, flowing carpet across the foreground
Ideal for shrimp tanks and sensitive setups
More compact than standard hairgrass varieties
Multiple plant portions per pot for wide coverage
 
IDEAL FOR
Iwagumi and nature-style aquascapes
High-end and competition layouts
Nano tanks and detailed foregrounds
Aquascapers aiming for a natural “grassy” effect
Shrimp tanks and clean, controlled environments
 
CARE SNAPSHOT
Difficulty: Moderate
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended
Growth: Moderate
Placement: Foreground
 
Eleocharis pusilla ‘Mini’ is a refined carpeting plant that creates a soft, grass-like foreground with a natural and understated appearance. Compared to standard hairgrass, this mini variant stays shorter and more compact, making it ideal for smaller tanks and detailed layouts.
Supplied in Tropica’s In Vitro format, this plant is grown in sterile laboratory conditions, ensuring it arrives free from algae, pests, and contaminants. Each pot contains multiple small plantlets that can be divided and planted across the substrate for even coverage.
In aquascaping, it is widely used to create flowing, meadow-like carpets that complement stone and wood hardscape. Its fine blades move gently in the current, adding a sense of motion and realism to the aquarium.
What makes Eleocharis pusilla ‘Mini’ unique is its balance between natural aesthetics and controlled growth. It offers the look of wild grass while remaining manageable in a structured aquascape. With consistent CO2 and lighting, it spreads through runners to form a dense, uniform carpet.
Some initial adjustment may occur after planting, but once established, it grows steadily and fills in gaps over time.
 
SPECIFICATIONS
Scientific name: Eleocharis pusilla ‘Mini’
Common name: Dwarf Hairgrass Mini
Origin: Cosmopolitan
Height: 3–6 cm
Placement: Foreground
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended
Temperature: 20–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
 
CARE GUIDE
Planting
Remove from the pot and rinse off all nutrient gel thoroughly. Divide into small portions and plant each clump a few centimetres apart using tweezers. This spacing encourages even runner spread.
Trimming
Trim lightly after initial planting to encourage horizontal growth. Regular trims help maintain a low, dense carpet.
Feeding
Use a nutrient-rich aquasoil to support root development. Supplement with liquid fertilisers for consistent growth.
CO2 Notes
CO2 injection is strongly recommended for dense carpeting. Without CO2, growth will be slower and less compact.
 
FAQ SECTION
What is the difference between this and standard hairgrass?
‘Mini’ stays shorter and more compact, making it better suited for nano tanks and detailed layouts.
Does it need CO2?
CO2 is recommended for a dense carpet, though it can grow slowly without it.
How long does it take to carpet?
Typically a few weeks to a couple of months depending on conditions.
Is it safe for shrimp tanks?
Yes, the In Vitro format ensures it is completely safe and contaminant-free.
Why is it growing upwards instead of spreading?
This is usually due to low light or lack of CO2. Improving both encourages horizontal growth.
How do I get a dense carpet?
Plant in small portions, provide strong lighting, and trim regularly.
 
PAIRS WELL WITH
Aquasoil substrates for strong root development
Pressurised CO2 systems for dense carpet formation
Liquid fertilisers for balanced nutrients
Foreground plants like Monte Carlo for contrast
Midground plants such as Pogostemon helferi
Natural stone for Iwagumi-style layouts