More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Light | low-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
Echinodorus horizontalis, a medium-sized sword plant from the Amazon depression in northern South America, distinguishes itself by typically growing in shaded ground of marsh woods or flooded forests. It tolerates rapid changes in water levels, adapting by developing submersed leaves similar to its emersed ones. This plant, with distinct longish-oval leaf blades that grow horizontally, boasts a light-medium green hue, with new leaves often displaying a light reddish-brown color. In its emersed form, it can reach heights exceeding 50 cm, but when cultivated in aquariums, it usually grows to a height of 15-20 cm, making it suitable for smaller tanks.
Aquarium Suitability
Echinodorus horizontalis, though rarely commercially available today, was once popular in the aquarium trade. When cultivated submersed in aquariums, this plant thrives, demonstrating robust growth and even producing flower stalks with adventitious plants. It prefers softer, slightly acidic water, adequate CO2 supply, and a nutrient-rich substrate. Despite its slow growth rate, it can eventually occupy a considerable amount of space due to its wide leaf rosette.
Demands and Hardiness
Requiring low to medium light levels and sensitive to iron deficiencies that lead to chloroses, E. horizontalis is relatively undemanding regarding lighting but should not be shaded in an aquarium. It fares best in temperatures ranging from 23-26°C and tolerates a range of 18-28°C. This plant is not well suited for outdoor use in colder climates, as it thrives in controlled aquarium environments.
Aquascaping & Usage
Ideal for midground placement in aquariums, Echinodorus horizontalis adds a unique horizontal element to aquascapes with its distinct leaf structure and gridlike patterns. Its slow growth rate allows for easy maintenance in aquarium setups, making it suitable for aquarists looking to cultivate a visually appealing yet manageable plant.
Propagation
Echinodorus horizontalis can be propagated through proliferating inflorescences, rhizome division, and seeds, offering aquarists multiple options for expanding their plant population.
Habitat and Distribution
With its natural habitat in the Amazon depression, E. horizontalis is commonly found in marsh woods, flooded forests, and riverbanks in northern South America. While once prevalent in the hobbyist trade, it is now challenging to source, with other species or hybrids sometimes mistaken for E. horizontalis due to its limited availability. Despite its demanding nature when cultivated emersed in aquatic nurseries, this plant flourishes when grown submersed in aquariums, relying on enthusiasts for its continued presence in aquascaping.