1 portion: 1 bunch 6-10 leaves

If you're looking for a smaller species of Echinodorus, you might be referring to Echinodorus parviflorus, often known as the "Rosette Sword" or "Tropica Sword." This plant is popular among aquarists for its compact size and attractive appearance.

Characteristics

• Appearance: Echinodorus parviflorus has broad, oval to lanceolate leaves that are usually dark green. The leaves form a rosette, creating a bushy appearance. Under good lighting and nutrient conditions, the leaves can take on a slight reddish hue.
• Size: This plant typically grows to a height of about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches), making it suitable for midground placement in aquariums.

Care Requirements

• Light: Moderate lighting is sufficient for Echinodorus parviflorus. While it can tolerate lower light conditions, brighter light will encourage more compact and denser growth.
• CO2: CO2 supplementation is not strictly necessary but can enhance growth and coloration, especially in high-tech planted tanks.
• Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial. Echinodorus species have strong root systems, so substrates like aqua soil or gravel supplemented with root tabs work well.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
  • pH: 6.5-7.5
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (3-8 dGH)

Growth and Maintenance

• Growth Rate: Echinodorus parviflorus has a moderate growth rate. It is relatively easy to care for and maintain, making it a good choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
• Propagation: This plant propagates through runners and side shoots. New plantlets will develop along the runners and can be separated and replanted once they have a few leaves and a healthy root system.

Aquascaping Uses

• Midground Plant: Due to its moderate size, Echinodorus parviflorus is ideal for midground placement in aquariums. It can also be used in the foreground of larger tanks.
• Versatility: Its bushy, rosette form makes it versatile in aquascaping, providing a natural transition between the foreground and background plants.
• Contrast: The dark green leaves provide a good contrast to lighter green plants and can help create depth and visual interest in the aquascape.

Challenges

• Light Requirements: While moderate light is sufficient, too low light can cause the plant to grow leggy and lose its compact form.
• Nutrient Demand: Though relatively undemanding, the plant benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate and occasional supplementation with liquid fertilizers, especially iron, to maintain vibrant growth and coloration.

Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Echinodorus parviflorus adds a lush, green, and natural look to aquariums with its broad leaves and rosette growth pattern.
• Habitat: Provides shelter and grazing surfaces for small fish and invertebrates, enhancing the overall habitat of the tank.
• Oxygenation: As with other fast-growing plants, it helps improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and releasing oxygen.

Overall, Echinodorus parviflorus is a beautiful and versatile plant that can enhance the aesthetics and ecological balance of freshwater aquariums. It is suitable for a range of tank sizes and aquascaping styles, providing both visual interest and practical benefits to the aquarium environment.