Echinodorus tenellus ‘Red Needle’
Create a colourful, natural-looking foreground with Echinodorus tenellus ‘Red Needle’, a delicate, grass-like plant with slender leaves that develop reddish to violet tones under strong lighting. Its fine texture adds contrast around rocks, driftwood, and bright green carpeting plants.
Also known under the modern genus Helanthium, this miniature chain sword spreads through runners, gradually forming an attractive lawn. Plant it in small groups for subtle accents or allow it to fill in for a meadow-style aquascape.
Care & Placement
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Placement: Foreground
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Lighting: Medium to high; stronger lighting encourages red colouration
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CO₂: Recommended for fuller growth and establishment
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Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs
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Growth rate: Moderate
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Propagation: Runners
Planting Instructions: Separate into small rooted plantlets and plant a few centimetres apart. Bury the roots while keeping the crown above the substrate. Allow space for runners to spread, and thin established patches as needed.
Plant size and colour may vary with growing conditions. Plants may arrive predominantly green and develop reddish tones under suitable aquarium lighting.