More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 18°C / 64.40°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-21 kh |
| Light | medium-high |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
The Echinodorus grandiflorus, also known as Alisma grandiflorum, is a semi-aquatic plant originating from the rivers and riverbanks along the coast of southeastern South America. Belonging to the family Alismataceae, it is characterized by robust emersed growth, with long, round leaf stalks and oblong-ovate slightly heart-shaped leathery leaf blades. This species can reach over a meter in height when grown emersed and produces large flowers with wide, overlapping petals and a faint scent.
Aquarium Suitability
Although rarely found in the hobby, Echinodorus grandiflorus can be cultivated submersed in aquariums. It is a slow grower but can reach heights exceeding 50 cm when provided with sufficient nutrients in a large tank. A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial for its growth, and it is suitable for large, unheated aquariums where it can be a striking solitary plant due to its high-growing rosette structure.
Demands and Hardiness
Echinodorus grandiflorus is classified as an easy-to-care-for plant with slow growth. It thrives under medium to high lighting conditions and prefers water temperatures ranging from 18-26°C. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 4°C and as high as 30°C, making it versatile in various aquarium setups. It requires a substrate rich in nutrients and achieves optimal growth in moderate water hardness and nutrient levels.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, E. grandiflorus serves as a semi-emersed plant suitable for open tanks, providing a background element with its tall, slender growth. Its distinctive lanceolate-obovate leaves, reddish-golden hue, and reddish-brown freckles add visual interest to aquatic landscapes. Additionally, during the warm season, it can be used as a marsh plant on the edges of outdoor tanks, thriving in nutrient-rich loam substrates.
Propagation
Propagation of Echinodorus grandiflorus can be achieved through various methods, including sowing seeds, parting the thick rhizome, splitting, and cutting off daughter plants. The plant forms adventitious plants on its flower stalks in some populations, contributing to its propagation in natural environments. Emersed specimens may require tools like axes or spades for rhizome division due to the plant's robust growth.
Habitat and Distribution
Naturally found in southern South America, E. grandiflorus inhabits regions from South Brazil to Central Argentina, including areas like Patagonia. It thrives along riverbanks and in river deltas, with populations extending into Uruguay and Argentina. The plant's tolerance for cooler temperatures stems from its native habitats, where it experiences mild to cool winters conducive to its growth and reproduction.