Sagittaria Subulata

Sagittaria subulata — The Classic Carpeting Grass for Every Tank

Sagittaria subulata, commonly known as Dwarf Sagittaria or Narrow-leaved Arrowhead, is one of the most popular and reliable carpeting plants in the aquarium hobby. Native to the eastern coast of North and South America, this grass-like plant forms a lush, bright green carpet that brings a natural, meadow-like quality to any planted aquascape.

What sets S. subulata apart is its remarkable adaptability — it thrives in a wide range of conditions, tolerates low light, and spreads steadily via runners without demanding CO₂ injection or high-tech equipment. For aquascapers seeking a dependable, low-maintenance foreground plant that delivers consistent results, Sagittaria subulata is an enduring favourite.

Appearance

• Height: 5 – 30 cm (2 – 12 inches); stays compact under high light, grows taller in lower light
• Leaves: Narrow, strap-like, bright to medium green; clean and grass-like in appearance
• Growth habit: Spreads prolifically via runners, forming a dense, natural-looking carpet over time

Care & Planting Tips

• Plant individual runners 2–3 cm apart to encourage a dense carpet to form quickly
• Higher lighting keeps growth compact and low; lower light will cause it to grow taller and more upright
• Spreads readily via runners — trim and replant to fill gaps or control spread
• CO₂ is not required, making it ideal for low-tech and beginner setups
• Root tabs or a nutrient-rich substrate will support healthy, vigorous spreading

Ideal Tank Parameters

• pH: 6.0 – 8.0 (highly adaptable)
• Temperature: 18 – 28°C (64 – 82°F)
• Hardness: Soft to hard
• Lighting: Low to High
• CO₂: Not required
• Fertilization: Root tabs recommended; liquid fertilizer beneficial

Sold as individual runners or a portion. Due to its vigorous spreading habit, it establishes quickly and begins carpeting within weeks of planting.