Dwarf Sagittaria
Sagittaria subulata
Edited by Ivan F. · Reviewed
Beginner verdict
A grass-like plant that spreads through runners and can form a soft carpet without demanding high light. It stays short in stronger light and grows taller in dim tanks. It is among the easiest ways to make a green foreground, and it grows well in sand or gravel.
- Light
- Low
- CO2
- Beneficial
- Growth
- Moderate
- Placement
- Foreground
- Max height
- 12 in (30 cm)
- Temperature
- 64–82 °F (18–28 °C)
- pH
- 5–9
- Needs substrate
- Yes
Dwarf Sagittaria care
How it spreads
It spreads through runners, forming a low meadow. Separate new plants once they root.
Dwarf Sagittaria care mistakes to avoid
- Keep the crown above the substrate, or the plant can rot.
- Use root tablets in plain gravel or sand, because it feeds through its roots.
- Expect taller growth in low light, which keeps it from forming a short carpet.
- Be patient at first, since runners appear once the plant settles.
Dwarf Sagittaria setup
LightLow light
Our sources rate Dwarf Sagittaria as a low light plant. These are the lights we chose for a first planted tank.
hygger 18W LED Aquarium Light (18-24 inch) US
NICREW ClassicLED Plus Aquarium Light US
EHEIM classicLED plants 550 mm Spain
EHEIM classicLED daylight 550 mm Spain
Why we chose these (Best Light for a Beginner Planted Tank). Nobody here has used or tested them.
SubstrateGrows strongly in a nutrient-rich substrate.
We are still choosing products for this.
Where to buy Dwarf Sagittaria
Stores that list it under the same scientific name as this page. Links marked as affiliate links may earn us a commission. We have not bought from them, so check each store's own terms.
See it at The Shrimp Farm (a retailer; affiliate link)
We have not found a store that sells Dwarf Sagittaria under its scientific name yet. We add stores as we confirm them.
Live animals and plants travel by courier. Check the store's live-arrival guarantee, and only buy once your tank has cycled (see how to cycle a fish tank).
Some US states restrict certain species. Check our US state aquarium rules table and your state's own rules before you buy.
Dwarf Sagittaria FAQ
How tall does Dwarf Sagittaria grow?
Tropica lists growth to about 30 cm (12 in) in a tank, and it can grow larger over time.
What light does Dwarf Sagittaria need?
Tropica rates its light demand as low. Most standard aquarium lights are enough.
Will dwarf sagittaria carpet without CO2?
Often yes. It is one of the easier carpet plants, though carbon dioxide and more light help it spread faster.
Why is it growing so tall?
Low light usually makes it reach upward. More light tends to keep it shorter and denser.
Dwarf Sagittaria facts and sources
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