Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae - Immersed Potted Plant

Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae is a fine-bladed, grass-like carpeting plant native to New Zealand. prized for its natural “river-meadow” look, it forms neat, low mats that bring subtle texture and a true-to-nature feel to the foreground. Compared with Lilaeopsis brasiliensis, this species has a slightly cool-water preference, and a slower, tidier spread—perfect for Iwagumi and nature-style aquascapes where detail matters.

Physical characteristics

• Height & spread: Typically 2–6 cm tall; spreads laterally by runners to form a carpet.

• Leaves: Brighter green under strong light; denser and more refined than many other “micro swords”.

• Growth habit: Creeping stolons; compact tufts knit together over time.

Aquarium requirements

• Lighting: Moderate to high. Strong light keeps blades short and dense; low light causes taller, looser tufts.

• CO₂: Helpful for compact growth and faster coverage (not strictly essential in richer substrates, but strongly recommended).

• Water: 18–26 °C (tolerates the cooler end well), pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard.

• Substrate & nutrients: Fine-grain, nutrient-rich substrate (aquasoil/sand with root tabs). Although it will take some nutrients from the water column, it responds best to a fed root zone and clean, well-filtered water.

Planting & spacing
Divide the pot into tiny plugs (5–10 blades each). Using tweezers, plant shallowly, just covering the roots and stolon, with the leaf bases above the surface to avoid rot. Space 2–3 cm apart; the runners will stitch the gaps for an even lawn.

Care & maintenance

• Trim tops lightly every few weeks to keep the carpet low and encourage lateral runners.

• Siphon detritus from the lawn to prevent shading and filament algae.

• Maintain stable CO₂ and nutrients; a small weekly iron/trace dose keeps colour fresh.

Propagation
Simple via runners. Once daughter tufts have several blades and their own roots, they can be lifted, separated, and replanted to speed coverage.

Aquascaping use
A superb foreground carpet for Iwagumi and nature-style layouts. Its fine texture contrasts beautifully with Seiryu/ryouh stones, driftwood, and broad-leaf midground plants. Works in cool-water community tanks and shrimp set-ups where delicate detail is desired.

Common challenges & tips

• Slow start: It establishes steadily rather than explosively—begin with many small plugs and give consistent light/CO₂.

• Upright, leggy blades: Increase light and flow; ensure CO₂ stability.

• Algae in the lawn: Keep the carpet thin (regular trims), reduce organics, and maintain good circulation.

Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae delivers a refined, natural grass carpet with authentic New Zealand character. Provide bright light, a fed root zone, and tidy housekeeping, and it repays you with a resilient, close-cut sward that elevates any planted aquascape.

Origin
Country or continent where a plant is the most common. Cultivars arise or are bred in cultivation.

Growth Rate
Growth rate of the plant compared to other aquatic plants.

Height
Average height (cm) of the plant after two months in the tank.

Light Demand
The average or medium light demand of an aquarium plant is 0.5 W/L.

CO2 Demand
A medium need in CO2 is 6-14 mg/L. A high demand in CO2 is approx. 15-25 mg/L.