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[APD] Re: Eriocaulon



G'day Cameron

Eriocaulon setaceum is the most truly aquatic of all our Australian members
of this genus and undoubtedly the most beautiful. When seen in the wild in
its prime the most outstanding feature is the outstanding pale green colour
of the finely divided bottle-brush-like foliage along the elongated central
stem, topped by the unique emergent flower stalks , each with a
pincushion-like ball on top. These "cylinders" may be 3-4 inches across and
looking down on the upper spiralling rosette is the best view.

Since the habitat is mostly the monsoonal tropical north of Australia and
adjacent countries, the waters are mostly temporary so drought-resistant
seeds and an annual  life cycle based on the rainfall is necessary for
survival.

E. setaceum is almost always found growing in full sun and a rich organic
sunstrate. It apparently does not produce runners or divide at the base. All
the other species here seem to form rosettes with straight leaves of varying
lengths. Naturally they also have the same flowering style.Waters are
usually acid to neutral in pH, temperatures are usually 80+F. Once the water
levels start to fall the plant is past prime and looks quite sad as it dries
out and dies. The emergent flower parts are the last to degrade and the
seeds are viable for many years after. Because the stems are quite fragile
it does not generally travel well. I am unaware of anyone growing it in
aquaria for any extended length of time.

Cheers

Bruce  (Hansen)

ANGFA Queensland Inc.
Please visit us at www.angfaqld.org.au

----- Original Message ----- 
From: <aquatic-plants-request at actwin_com>
To: <aquatic-plants at actwin_com>
Sent: Thursday, July 22, 2004 3:55 PM
Subject: Aquatic-Plants Digest, Vol 11, Issue 33


> Message: 1
> Date: Wed, 21 Jul 2004 16:04:02 -0500
> From: Cameron <cameron at ccase_net>
> Subject: [APD] Eriocaulon setaceum
> To: aquatic-plants at actwin_com
>
> Does anyone know anything about Eriocaulon setaceum?  It is really
> attractive, but I've found limited information (though Kasselman's book
> does say the most Eriocaulon species are annual p.25).
>

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