The genus Echinodorus belongs to the frog 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.
Which Echinodorus species are there?
Some well-known Echinodorus species are Echinodorus bleheri, Echinodorus cordifolius, Echinodorus parviflorus, Echinodorus horizontalis, Echinodorus tenellus and Echinodorus quadricostatus. These different species vary in size, color, light and temperature requirements, and their propagation methods.
What species are there?
The variety of sword plants is relatively large. In addition to the different original species, there are also numerous cultivated forms. Depending on their homeland, the demands on water quality, exposure and care of the individual sword plant vary. Many of them are swamp plants, they tolerate a drop in the water level very well.
Some species of sword plants, on the other hand, are among the “real” aquatic plants that only thrive under water. If the water level drops, only the rhizomes survive. As the water rises, the plant will sprout again. However, this characteristic does not play a major role in the aquarium.
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): black leaf markings in intensive lighting, medium size, 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 (grass-like sword plant): red-brown leaves in intensive lighting, slightly more difficult to care for 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 through which they spread further. There are also species that use both methods of propagation. Rhizome-forming sword plants are usually easy to divide. The daughter plants are usually very easy to care for and grow easily after planting.
Tip
As a beginner in aquarium keeping, you should choose an easy-care type of sword plant. But also make sure that the size of the plant actually fits your aquarium.
