The Echinodorus genus belongs to the Frog Spoon family. The sword plants, as they are called in German, are particularly popular in freshwater aquariums. They originally come from Central and South America and the southern parts of the USA.
The Echinodorus cordifolius is very robust and can also cope with cooler water
What types are there?
The variety of sword plants is relatively large. In addition to the different original species, there are numerous cultivated forms. The requirements for water quality, lighting and care of the individual sword plant vary according to their homeland. Many of them are marsh plants, they tolerate a drop in the water level very well.
Some species of sword plants, on the other hand, are among the "right" aquatic plants that only thrive well under water. When the water level drops, only the rhizomes survive. When the water level rises, the plant will sprout again. In the aquarium, however, this peculiarity does not play a major role.
Some Echinodorus species in brief:
- Echinodorus bleheri (broad-leaved sword plant): green rosette plant, ideal temperature of 20°C to 30°C
- Echinodorus cordifolius (heart-leaved sword plant): very robust, numerous subspecies, medium-sized, some also suitable for cooler water
- Echinodorus parviflorus (Black Sword Plant): with intense lighting, black leaf markings, medium-sized, ideal temperature between 20 °C and 26 °C
- Echinodorus horizontalis (horizontal sword plant): horizontal leaf growth, needs a lot of space, suitable for shallow aquariums, strong rhizome formation, ideal temperature between 24 °C and 29 °C
- Echinodorus tenellus (Grassy Sword Plant): reddish-brown leaves under intense lighting, slightly more difficult to maintain than other species, ideal temperature between 22°C and 29°C
- Echinodorus quadricostatus (dwarf sword plant): grows quickly, light green leaves, forms lawn-like cushions, prefers fine gravel, high nutrient requirements
How can Echinodorus species be propagated?
Some species of Echinodorus reproduce by producing daughter plants, others form rhizomes that spread further. There are also species that use both methods of propagation. Rhizomatous sword plants are usually easy to divide. The daughter plants are usually very easy to care for and grow easily after planting.
tips
As a beginner in aquaristics, you should opt for an easy-care species of sword plant. But also make sure that the size of the plant actually fits your aquarium.