Eriocaulon breviscapum

Eriocaulon breviscapum has not been known as an aquarium plant for very long and is still a rarity. However, another plant is also available under the name "E. breviscapum", which is probably Eriocaulon periyarense. Our plant forms dense, grass-like bushes with submerged leaves that are 50–60 cm long and only 1.8 mm wide. The leaf rosette and roots sit on a 6-10 mm thick, ascending to upright rhizome. This forms daughter rosettes through branching, and over time a broad clump grows. Occasionally, inflorescences appear with a stem that remains shorter than the leaves and a head with many tiny grey-white flowers. With its narrow, flexible leaves, the plant resembles E. sp. "Feather Duster" and E. sp. "Japan Needle Leaf", but grows taller. Unlike "Japan Needle Leaf", it cannot attach itself to objects with its roots.
Eriocaulon breviscapum is endemic to the Western Ghats in south-west India, where it grows in shallow water in mountain rivers. It anchors itself in gravel and between boulders with its strong, long roots. Usually, only the inflorescences protrude from the water, while the long leaves float in the water.

Eriocaulon species have a reputation for being particularly demanding, but this is by no means the case with E. breviscapum. The species grows well in medium to strong lighting in soft to medium-hard water. A nutrient-rich substrate promotes growth, but is not absolutely necessary. Macro and micronutrient supply via the water column is sufficient. CO₂ supply is recommended if the aquarium has few animals. Propagation is prolific by dividing the clump and separating the shoots. Over time, the stem-like rootstocks grow above the substrate. You can then cut off the upper part of the rhizome with the leaf rosette and replant it. The remaining rootstock will then branch out more strongly.

This Eriocaulon is an excellent background plant with fine, grass-like foliage. It can be used in aquascaping instead of plants such as Vallisneria gracilis ("nana) and Eleocharis sp. "montevidensis", is easy to care for and does not spread with runners. With a growth height of up to 60 cm, Eriocaulon breviscapum is particularly suitable for appropriately tall tanks, but is also ideal for stream biotope aquariums. Its long leaves swaying in the current give a very natural impression. At low water levels, its striking inflorescences can also be expected to appear above the water.