echinodorus decumbens

Echinodorus decumbens is a very narrow-leaved wild type sword plant from Brazil. Since the 1990s it has been widely spread in cultivation, however it’s typically uncommon to most hobbyists and not often available. Its scientific name means “low-lying sword plant”, which only refers to its decumbent, i.e. creeping flower stalks; the leaf rosette has an upright growth habit.

As virtually all Echinodorus, this species prefers a nutrient-rich substrate and medium to strong lighting. It has no special demands and grows also well in medium hard water. Due to its origin in a hot region of Brazil, Echinodorus decumbens tolerates high temperatures around 30 °C, so it’s suitable for Discus tanks. Its growth is not very fast. It is propagated by adventitious plantlets on the inflorescences which appear mostly in the emersed form, but sometimes also in the aquarium. As usual with Echinodorus from water plant nurseries, it is mostly delivered in its terrestrial (emersed) form with considerably broader, lanceolate leaves. Planted into the aquarium, its much narrower submerged leaves will appear.

Plant Care: warmth and light-loving plant, almost does not form air leaves. Adapts to different water, from soft to hard, even alkaline. Plant solitaire in the center of the aquarium or in the background, it will grow moderately fast, forming loose sockets.

Natural Habitat: River banks in full sun with a little shade. Natural plant height of 20-60 cm

Place of origin: Brazil
Maximum height: 20 – 60 cm
Growth rate: Moderate
Lighting: Medium to Strong
CO2: Low
Demands: Easy
Position range: Foreground to Background
Type: Planted
Substrate: Aquarium/Plant Soil
Propagation: Rhizome Division
Temperature range: 22 – 30°C
pH: 6.0 – 8.0
Hardness: 4-18°N dGH