I'm too cheap for that and use rubber bands Also they can be a bit looser and may be easier to cut when the plant is anchored. But they are also more visible.

The Mexican Oakleaf, Trichoronis rivularis? Shinnerisa rivularis? wasn't easily grown when in killie circles around here. I think it was lost after we bought some to a local show auction. It seems to be from Mexico and Texas.

After a little Googling I notice that does better with warmth. I wonder also if the, ah, thrifty, individuals who bought it here should have kept it under brighter light, maybe 2.5-3 watts per gallon or even more. I note that some have had better luck when CO2 has been added to the tank. Adding carbon dioxide to a tank does wonderful things for many plants, but is more involved than what many aquarists are willing to do for their plants. And it is an expensive addition to one's set up and I don't know how to conveniently distribute it to a bunch of smaller (10-gallon, 5.5-gallon) tanks.

As you note, it is a bunch plant. If one is doing right by it, it can be cut and rooted as you are doing.

Keep us posted if they do well for you. Both plants are trading material, if you can catch the eye of those who want them. :)