Juncus Repens

Juncus repens is the only rush (Juncus) species regularly used in aquariums. It comes from the swamps of the southeastern part of North America and grows both submersed and emersed. Its appearance is unusual: small tufts of narrow, pointed leaves are arranged at equal intervals along a flattened stem. This gives the impression of both a grass and a stem plant. In medium light it stays fresh green; with strong light and enough trace elements it turns copper and reddish brown. In the aquarium it grows 10–20 cm tall.

• Stems are planted singly or in small bunches, 3 cm apart.
• It is used in the midground as a texture accent or, kept short, in the foreground-to-midground transition.

• Light: Medium; strong light for color.
• CO₂: Not required, but it increases growth and coloration.
• Fertilizer: Liquid fertilizer; iron and trace elements support the reddish tone.
• Trimming and propagation: A top cut just below a leaf tuft grows when replanted, even without roots. Side shoots and daughter plants can also be separated.
• Its slow-growing leaves can collect green spot algae; do not increase the light excessively.