New Zealand Grass care guide
New Zealand Grass (Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae) — medium light, 18-26 °C, pH 6-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
New Zealand Grass (Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae) is an aquatic plant of the family Apiaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as a beginner-level species. It is typically grown under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection on nutrient-rich aquasoil. Larger species of Lilaeopsis with grass-like leaves up to 7 cm tall. Grows by runners to form a meadow effect; medium light and good substrate accelerate carpeting.
Taxonomy
- Family: Apiaceae
- Genus: Lilaeopsis
- Scientific name: Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae
Habitat
Lilaeopsis is a genus of small marsh plants (Apiaceae) of muddy margins and tidal flats in the Americas and Australasia; the dwarf submersed forms resemble short grass. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from Oceania.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 18-26 °C (64-79 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-14 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 7 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: foreground carpet
Placement
A foreground carpet planted in small plugs; bright light and CO2 keep the blades short and the lawn dense, while shade causes vertical stretching. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the foreground as a carpet under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection, using nutrient-rich aquasoil.
Propagation
Spreads by runners that send up new blades along the substrate, gradually filling the foreground into a turf. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: horizontal runners.
Common issues
Slow establishment is normal; low light thins the carpet and lets algae settle on the blades, corrected by stronger light and good flow.