3 Creeping Plants That Look Like Grass

You’d probably think of carpeting and stem plants whenever you hear about aquarium plants. Those kinds of plants are usually the go-to plants for hobbyists. Creeping plants, though? Not so much.

However, thanks to some imaginative aquarium enthusiasts, creeping plants are becoming a popular trend. But why choose a plant whose name reminds one of something unpleasant?

Why Choose Creeping Plants

First off, they look fantastic. They add texture and depth to your foreground, creating a natural, lived-in feel that stands out. But they're not just pretty faces.

Creeping plants are problem-solvers, too.

If you have an unsightly filter or heater, these plants can help hide them.

Fish need places to explore and hide? Creeping plants create perfect little nooks and crannies. 

Since they are usually quick growers, they also absorb excess nutrients, which can improve water quality by starving out algae.

Popular Varieties of Creeping Plants

Here are three popular varieties of creeping plants that offer different looks and care needs, so you're sure to find one that fits your setup.

Dwarf Sagittaria (Sagittaria subulata)

This grass-like plant is a workhorse in my aquariums. It forms dense, bright green carpets in the foreground, and looks/grows just like grass!

Dwarf Sag thrives in moderate light and doesn't need CO2 injection. It grows best in nutrient-rich substrates and spreads quickly. Dwarf Sags are perfect for beginners.

Creeping Rush (Juncus repens)

This unique plant is a conversation starter in many aquariums. It forms dense, grass-like clumps with thin, needle-like leaves. I recommend growing it in medium light. It also doesn't demand CO2 injection and is adaptable to various substrates, making it a versatile choice. 

You can use it to create natural-looking borders or as a midground accent.

Broadleaf Chain Sword (Echinodorus tenellus)

This plant forms rosettes of narrow leaves that spread via runners. It can be grown successfully in moderate light conditions and also doesn't require CO2 supplementation. It prefers nutrient-rich substrates, so don't forget the root tabs!

It's great as a transition between foreground and midground plants.

Aquascaping with Creeping Plants

These plants take a little time to establish, but the results are worth it.

For a lush carpet effect, plant in small clumps less than an inch apart. This encourages faster spread.

With Dwarf Sagittaria, I recommend trimming it regularly to maintain a low profile. For Juncus repens, you can let it grow a bit taller to create depth.

Rocks and driftwood can have Broadleaf Chain Sword around their bases. As it grows, it softens edges and creates a natural transition. For a cascading effect, try planting Juncus repens on an elevated hardscape.

Bottom-dwellers like Corydoras catfish love creeping plants. They provide cover and feeding grounds. Shrimp are also big fans; Cherry Shrimp can spend hours exploring dense patches of Dwarf Sagittaria.

Remember, regular trimming is important. It promotes dense growth and prevents overgrowth. Trim during water changes to keep things tidy.

Lastly, consider your layout carefully. Use taller plants in the back, transitioning to shorter creeping plants in the front. This approach creates depth and draws the eye through your aquascape. 

Takeaway

Creeping plants add texture, hide equipment, and create fish havens. Plus, they're fun to work with. If you're an old hand at this hobby, why not give them a shot? Mix and match different species. See what works in your tank.

And don't keep it to yourself—share your creations online. Your fellow hobbyists will love seeing what you come up with. Who knows? You might inspire someone else to try something new.

So grab some creeping plants and let your creativity loose. Good luck with aquascaping!