Acorus gramineus pusillus

Scientific name: Acorus gramineus pusillus

Family: Acoraceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 15 - 100 cm (5.91 - 39.37 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6.4 - 7.2

Recommended water hardness: 4 - 18°dGH (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 19 - 22 °C (66.2 - 71.6°F)

Preferred propagation method: Rhizome

Native to: East Asia

Growth rate: Slow

Recommended substrate: Gravel

Lighting requirements: Bright

Ideal placement in tank: Foreground

Family

Acoraceae

Planting Area

Acorus gramineus 'Pusillus', also known as Miniature Japanese Sweet Flag, is best suited for shallow, moisture-rich environments such as pond margins, marsh edges, or paludariums. 💧 While it is sometimes marketed for aquariums, it is not a true aquatic plant and declines when fully submerged for extended periods. For best results, grow it in damp soil or shallow water zones, ensuring the roots are moist and the rhizome remains exposed to air. Its compact, grassy appearance brings delicate structure and texture to semi-aquatic layouts.

Propagation

Acorus gramineus 'Pusillus' propagates through division of the rhizome. 🌱 When dividing, ensure that each section includes a healthy portion of roots and several leaves. Place the rhizome gently on moist soil or a saturated substrate without burying it—burial may cause rot. Over time, new shoots will develop. This method is most successful in shallow, humid environments such as paludarium bases or along pond edges.

Difficulty

This plant is easy to care for 🧑‍🌾 in paludariums, terrariums, and pondscapes with high humidity. It tolerates a wide range of emersed conditions and does not demand intensive care once established. Trim back withered leaves as needed using clean scissors, and keep the rhizome above the substrate to avoid rot.

Short Description

This miniature form of Acorus gramineus features narrow, grass-like foliage in vibrant gold and green tones. 🌿 It adds refined visual interest to humid scapes, borders, and water-edge compositions. Though occasionally sold for aquariums, long-term submersion will cause decline. It thrives in high-humidity zones with partial submersion and consistent moisture. Occasional flowering is possible when conditions are ideal, but seed production is uncommon in captivity.

Lighting and Water Conditions

• 💡 Lighting: Moderate to high
• 🌡️ Temperature: 19–22 °C (66.2–71.6 °F)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5 to 7.5

Acorus gramineus 'Pusillus' prefers bright light to maintain its color and compact form. It benefits from occasional misting in terrariums or placement near pond spray zones. Nutrient-rich soil supports healthy growth, although fertilization is rarely necessary. Avoid complete submersion to prevent damage.

Uses in Aquascaping and Pondscaping

Acorus gramineus 'Pusillus' is a popular choice for creating borders, defining shallow edges, or enhancing small humid setups. 🐸 It combines well with marginal and semi-aquatic species like Cryptocoryne or Lilaeopsis for a lush, natural look. Its fine texture offers a soft contrast to broader-leafed plants, making it ideal for foreground planting in semi-aquatic scapes.

Potential Issues

• 🚫 Browning or Yellowing Leaves: May occur from full submersion or insufficient lighting.
• 📉 Stunted Growth: Caused by dry roots or poor soil.
• 💧 Algae Growth: Avoid stagnant water in pond setups.

Maintaining stable moisture and good lighting ensures healthy, long-lasting growth.

Final Note

Acorus gramineus 'Pusillus' is a slow-growing, hardy perennial 🌱 ideal for terrariums, paludariums, and riparian edges. Its small stature and elegant appearance make it a favored plant for hobbyists seeking simplicity and beauty in their designs. With the right placement and light, this marginal gem thrives in moist setups with minimal effort.