Eriocaulon cinereum
Eriocaulon cinereum
Eriocaulon cinereum is a compact and highly structured Asian Eriocaulon species producing dense, symmetrical rosettes of fine, narrow leaves that create a mathematically precise, star-like foreground form of considerable botanical distinction. Like all Eriocaulon, it demands very soft, slightly acidic water alongside CO₂ and high light — a combination of requirements that makes it a specialist plant for experienced aquarists with carefully managed soft-water systems.
Care tip: Eriocaulon cinereum grows best in high lighting with CO₂ required. Maintain temperatures of 70–80°F and pH 5.5–6.8. Regular fertilization supports healthy growth.
Growing to 3 to 5 inches, cinereum forms tightly organized foreground rosettes whose structural precision is most clearly expressed under optimal conditions. The compact, symmetrical form rewards close observation with extraordinary fine-scale botanical detail. As with all Eriocaulon, very soft water is not optional — hard or alkaline water consistently produces poor results regardless of other conditions.
As a challenging plant, cinereum requires CO₂ injection and high lighting. The pH range of 5.5 to 6.8 and the temperature of 70 to 80°F reflect the specific soft-water, slightly cooler preferences of this Asian species. Pristine water quality and stable parameters are critical alongside the standard light and CO₂ requirements. Regular fertilization in soft water supports the compact, structured rosette form.
In the aquascape, Eriocaulon cinereum creates a precisely structured foreground accent whose compact star-like rosettes add mathematical botanical precision to the foreground zone. In detailed high-tech soft-water compositions it pairs powerfully with other Eriocaulon species and demanding foreground plants to create a specialist botanical foreground of considerable rarity and visual impact.
Eriocaulon cinereum is a demanding specialist foreground plant for dedicated high-tech aquarists with soft-water systems. Its compact, structured rosette form and botanical precision make it a rewarding planted aquarium discovery for those who can provide its specific requirements.
Care & Specifications
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Placement | Foreground |
| Max Height | 3–5 inches |
| Light Level | High |
| Temperature | 70–80°F |
| pH | 5.5–6.8 |
| CO2 Needs | Required |
| Origin | Asia |
| Notes | Demanding but highly structured. Very soft water and CO₂ essential. |