Elder Root

Elder Roots are the ultimate material for achieving realism and dimension in your scapes. Sourced from natural roots and heat-treated for durability, these dark-toned roots come in a wide variety of shapes, curves, and thicknesses-each one unique, each one full of character.
 

Their rich, very dark brown color creates dramatic contrast against lighter substrates and lush greenery, making them ideal for both underwater and terrestrial designs. Whether you're recreating the forest floor or crafting a wild riverbank, Elder Roots allow you to build complex structures with an organic flow. Strong enough to support moss and epiphyte plants, they open the door to stunning botanical hardscapes.
 

Beyond aesthetics, Elder Roots are a natural source of tannins, helping to gently lower pH and recreate the soft, acidic conditions of tropical freshwater biotopes. This not only benefits aquatic life but also imparts a warm, tea-colored tint to your water-evoking the authentic beauty of places like the Amazon Basin.
 

The WIO difference: Elder Roots are our top-selling wood product, carefully selected for their natural form, strength, and adaptability.
 

See what you can create-explore our gallery for layout inspiration.

• Highly Realistic: Adds authentic texture, depth, and organic form to any scape.
• Unique & Flexible: Each piece is one-of-a-kind and easy to shape when soaked.
• Versatile Use: Great for aquariums, paludariums, and terrariums.
• Plant-Supporting: Strong enough to mount moss and epiphytes.
• Dark Elegance: Very dark brown tone enhances contrast and atmosphere.
• Natural Tannins: Releases beneficial tannins that support aquatic life and create a natural biotope look.
• Safe: 100% natural root, heat-treated and dehydrated.
• Packaging: Available in 250gr bundle.
• Size: Thin to very thin, 10–30 cm in length.
• Water Chemistry: May lower pH slightly. Does not affect hardness.

• Preparation
  – Rinse thoroughly before use to remove dust.
  – Soak in water for 24 hours to restore flexibility and sinkability.
   
• Placement Tips
  – To prevent floating, weigh down initially or secure to hardscape.
  – For long-lasting attachment, use the WIO ScapeGlue Kit to glue Elder Roots to stones, wood, or structural elements.
   
• Water Conditioning
  – Elder Roots release natural tannins that tint water a warm, tea color-harmless and beneficial.
  – For lighter tinting: pre-soak for 1–4 weeks or boil for several hours.
  – Perform partial water changes as needed to manage coloration.
• Natural Behavior
  – Biofilm or white fungus (Saprolegnia) may appear temporarily-normal and not harmful.
  – Gently remove if needed; it typically resolves within a few weeks.
   
• Notes
  – Every piece is unique-expect natural variation in shape, size, and texture.
  – Regularly monitor water parameters, especially when adding to established tanks.

For more tips on preparation, hardscape assembly, and water maintenance, visit the WIO Wood FAQ Section.