🌿 Echinodorus Palaefolius - Striking Freshwater Aquarium Plant
Bring a bold, lush presence to your aquarium with Echinodorus Palaefolius. Recognized for its broad, round leaves and strong growth, this plant creates a striking backdrop in freshwater aquascapes. Hardy and low-maintenance, it’s an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned aquarists alike.
Echinodorus Palaefolius Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌍 Origin | South America |
| 📏 Size | 12 - 24 inches |
| 💡 Lighting | Moderate to high |
| 🌡️ Temperature | 72°F - 82°F (22°C - 28°C) |
| 💧 pH Range | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| 🎨 Color | Bright green, broad round leaves |
| 🪴 Position in Tank | Background |
| 🌟 Difficulty | Beginner-friendly (easy to moderate) |
| 🐟 Compatibility | Betta fish, Neocaridina/Caridina shrimp, snails, community fish |
Why Choose Echinodorus Palaefolius?
- ✔️ Large, broad leaves – Creates a lush and vibrant aquascape.
- ✔️ Provides natural shelter – Ideal for fish and shrimp seeking cover.
- ✔️ Improves water quality – Absorbs excess nutrients, reducing algae growth.
- ✔️ Hardy and adaptable – Thrives in a variety of freshwater conditions.
How to Care for Echinodorus Palaefolius
Care Tips
- Lighting: Prefers moderate to high lighting for optimal growth.
- Placement: Best suited as a background plant due to its large size.
- Substrate: Thrives in nutrient-rich substrate; root tabs will boost growth.
- Fertilizer: Regular root fertilization and occasional liquid fertilizer maintain leaf vibrancy.
- Maintenance: Trim older leaves at the base to encourage fresh growth.
Propagation Steps
- Wait for Runners: The plant naturally produces side shoots or runners.
- Separate the Baby Plants: Once plantlets have roots, carefully detach them from the parent plant.
- Replant: Place the new plantlets into the substrate and allow them to establish.