Juncus repens - Tissue Culture

Juncus repens: The Lesser Creeping Rush

Juncus repens, commonly known as the Lesser Creeping Rush or Creeping Rush, is a highly versatile and popular aquatic stem plant native to the swampy regions of the southeastern United States. Valued for its grass-like appearance and adaptability, this tissue culture offers a fine, dense texture perfect for aquascaping.

Unlike many other rush species, Juncus repens thrives when fully submerged, making it a reliable addition to the freshwater aquarium. It can be cultivated as a bushy midground plant or, with consistent trimming and high light, as a dense foreground carpet. Its resilience makes it suitable for both beginner-friendly, low-tech tanks and advanced, high-tech setups.

Its leaves are typically a pleasing green, but under intense lighting and with a good supply of micronutrients, the tips of the shoots can develop attractive reddish or brown hues, adding a subtle color contrast to the aquascape.

Care & Growth Profile:

• Difficulty: This is considered an Easy to moderate plant. It is very adaptable and hardy, tolerating a wide range of conditions.
• Growth Habit: Juncus repens is a stem plant that exhibits a creeping growth habit, sending out lateral shoots and runners. Regular pruning is key to maintaining a short, bushy form.
• Lighting: Tolerates a wide range from Low to High. Medium light is adequate for healthy green growth. High light is necessary to achieve the desired reddish/brown coloration and a more compact growth pattern.
• Substrate & Fertilization: It is a Heavy Root-Feeder. It thrives best in a nutrient-rich substrate (such as aqua soil). If planted in inert substrates (gravel or sand), regular supplementation with root tabs is required. Liquid fertilization is beneficial, especially for micronutrients and achieving color.
• CO₂: Not Required. It grows fine without supplemental carbon dioxide. However, CO₂ injection will significantly boost its growth rate and is necessary to maintain a healthy balance in high-light tanks.
• Water Parameters: Prefers a stable environment but is quite tolerant. The ideal pH range is 5.5−8.0, and it grows well in soft to hard water. Recommended temperature range is 68−79°F (20−26°C).
• Propagation: Easily propagated by taking cuttings from the stems and replanting them into the substrate. New growth can also sprout from the leaves or runners.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Juncus repens
• Primary Common Name: Lesser Creeping Rush
• Other Common Names: Creeping Rush
• Origin: North America (Southeastern USA, Cuba)
• Max Height: 4−12 inches (10−30 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful (Non-invasive when trimmed)
• Diet: Water column and root feeder
• Minimum Tank Size: 5 Gallons+
• Aquarium Placement: Foreground, Midground, or Accent plant
• Light Demand for Red Color: High