Saururus cernuus

Scientific name: Saururus cernuus

Family: Saururaceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 5 - 30 cm (1.97 - 11.81 inch)

014

Recommended pH range: 6.7 - 7.2

Recommended water hardness: 4 - 12°dGH (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 18 - 23 °C (64.4 - 73.4°F)

Preferred propagation method: Cuttings

Native to: North America

Growth rate: Slow

Recommended substrate: Gravel

Lighting requirements: Bright

Ideal placement in tank: Midground

Family

Saururaceae

Common Names

Lizard’s Tail, Swamp Root, Water Dragon

Propagation

Saururus cernuus is propagated primarily through cuttings. To propagate, take side shoots from the mother plant and carefully remove the lower two pairs of leaves to expose the stem. The bare stem can then be planted into the substrate, ensuring the stem remains intact. Over a few weeks, the cutting will develop its own root system and begin to establish itself. In the wild, this plant can also spread by sending out runners, allowing it to colonize small areas of shallow water or wetlands. This propagation method makes it an excellent choice for pond environments as well, where it can easily spread along the edges and enhance the natural beauty of the water's edge.

Difficulty

Medium. Although this plant can adapt to different water conditions, it requires specific care to thrive in an aquarium, particularly regarding its lighting and submersion levels. In ponds, it is much easier to maintain due to its natural preference for shallow waters and marshy areas, where it can grow without the need for careful submersion management.

Short Description

Saururus cernuus, commonly known as Lizard’s Tail, is a marginal aquatic plant that thrives when grown with its roots submerged and its leaves above the waterline. It is ideal for aquariums, where it can grow up to 30 cm (11.81 inches), and it is equally suitable for outdoor ponds, where its natural growth habits are fully realized. The plant features triangular leaves and tall, slender flower stalks, initially appearing hairy but later producing small, white flowers. In aquariums, it can survive fully submerged for a limited time but prefers partial submersion. In ponds, the plant can grow more freely, offering a natural habitat for small pond creatures and adding a vibrant touch to the water's edge. Its slow growth and low maintenance needs make it a versatile addition to both aquascapes and ponds.

Maintenance and Care

Though Saururus cernuus is considered a medium-difficulty plant, it requires some attention to thrive in aquariums. Bright lighting is essential to maintain healthy growth, as inadequate light can cause the plant to weaken. Regular trimming is necessary to prevent overgrowth, particularly for submerged leaves that may begin to decay. It’s crucial to ensure that the crown of the plant remains above the substrate to avoid rot. In ponds, maintenance is easier, as the plant can grow in its natural form without frequent trimming, benefiting from natural sunlight and water movement. The plant can be placed near the water’s edge, where it will naturally spread and create a visually pleasing, lush environment.

Compatibility

This plant is well-suited for aquariums with peaceful fish species, providing shelter for fry or smaller fish with its tall leaves. In ponds, it serves as excellent habitat for small amphibians, fish fry, and insects, offering them protection and hiding places. It grows best in soft, slightly acidic water with moderate water flow in both aquariums and pond setups, making it a flexible choice for aquarists and pond enthusiasts alike.

Submersion, Aquascaping, and Pond Suitability

While Saururus cernuus can survive fully submerged in an aquarium for a limited time, it performs best as a marginal plant with its roots submerged and leaves exposed to the air. In aquascapes, it adds a lush, natural feel when planted in the middle of the tank, especially in setups mimicking swampy or marshland environments. In outdoor ponds, this plant can thrive in shallow waters, where its runners will spread, creating a beautiful green edge. Its adaptability to both aquarium and pond environments makes it an attractive choice for aquascapers looking to create a natural, serene atmosphere. Regular maintenance is needed in aquariums to manage its growth, but in ponds, the plant is largely self-sustaining, requiring minimal care.