New Caledonia Pipewort
eriocaulon neocaledonicum
Also known as: ["New Caledonia Pipewort"]
Overview
A small, aquatic or semi-aquatic plant native to New Caledonia, characterized by its grass-like foliage and delicate flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["aquatic","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Poales |
| Family: | Eriocaulaceae |
| Genus: | Eriocaulon |
| Botanical Name: | Eriocaulon neocaledonicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded indoor pot or terrarium with high humidity
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity levels
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, peat-based mix with perlite or sand; can include orchid bark for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; ensure proper drainage; avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
moist, acidic, peat-based potting mix with good drainage
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures in winter (55–65°F) can encourage dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of clumps or root cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets or cut healthy roots.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Not typically required but can be used for root cuttings.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sterilized tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stems close to the base; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain health and aesthetics; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove only dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure aeration with orchid bark or coco chips.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or drying out due to excessive heat and evaporation.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriocaulon neocaledonicum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicEriocaulon neocaledonicum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicEriocaulon neocaledonicum is not known to exhibit any toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eriocaulon neocaledonicum suitable for aquariums?
A: Yes, it is commonly used in aquariums and paludariums due to its aquatic nature.
Q: How often should I water Eriocaulon neocaledonicum?
A: It thrives in consistently moist or submerged conditions, so water or submerge it regularly.
Q: Does this plant require special lighting?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light or moderate aquarium lighting for optimal growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Eriocaulaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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