Saggitaria subulata: (Common name: Dwarf Saggitaria)

Overview: Native to the swampy habitats of Southern United States, Saggitaria subulata or the Dwarf Saggitaria is a very popular and undemanding foreground aquarium plant and is characterized by it’s compact runners. Primarily found along the seacoast, Saggitaria subulata thrives in brackish water in marshes and estuaries, as well as in some streams and ponds in partially or completely submerged condition. The comparatively shorter height makes it as an ideal foreground or midground plant in aquariums.

Appearance: Saggitaria subulata gives out short runners that grow into compact clusters. They are usually short in height and do not grow more than 10 cm at the maximum. But, under certain conditions, it may grow up to 50 cm in height and bear white flowers that float on the water surface. When planted in contrast with other aquatic plant species like Anubis nana and Glossostigma elatinoides, it looks beautiful.

Hard/Soft plant: Hard plant

Ideal water temperature conditions: Saggitaria subulata thrives in slightly warm tropical temperatures between 22 and 28 degree Celsius.

Lighting conditions: Although it grows well in moderate lighting, Saggitaria subulata grows best in higher lighting intensity. When exposed to high levels of light, the tips of the leaves tend to show a reddish coloration.  A T5 or a T8 fluorescent bulb or a minimum 3 watts per gallon is considered ideal.

Ideal pH level: Saggitaria subulata prefers water pH levels between 6.5 and 7.5 and thrives in soft to medium water hardness.

Functions and advantages:

• Saggitaria subulata is an indicator of iron levels in the aquarium and iron deficiency results in yellowish coloration of leaves.
• Saggitaria subulata is a beautiful addition to aquariums as a foreground or midground plant.

Did you know?

Saggitaria subulata propagates via runners and simply by snipping them off and planting in a nutrient rich substrate will facilitate the growth of new plants in no time.