More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 15°C / 59.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| 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
Echinodorus palaefolius, also known as Echinodorus palifolius, is a fast-growing aquatic plant that originates from eastern Brazil. Belonging to the family Alismataceae, this plant is often available in the commercial trade, sometimes under misapplied names like E. argentinensis or E. rigidifolius. It features lanceolate, emersed leaves with pale yellow stamina and distinctive longitudinal ridges on the leaf stalks. When grown in optimal conditions, the new leaves may exhibit a reddish tint, adding to its visual appeal.
Aquarium Suitability
E. palaefolius is considered very easy to care for in aquarium settings. While it can thrive under medium to high lighting conditions and relatively warm water temperatures ranging from 23-28°C, its aquarium use is somewhat limited due to its tendency to grow aerial leaves once it establishes a strong presence. However, it can be managed by regular pruning of the longer-stalked leaves or by periodically replacing the mature plant with a younger one. This plant is best suited for open tanks as a solitary emersed plant or in large paludarium setups where it can reach heights of up to 1 meter.
Demands and Hardiness
The water conditions suitable for E. palaefolius include moderate to high light, a pH range of 6.5-7.5, and temperatures between 23-28°C, making it adaptable to a variety of aquarium environments. It is a fast-growing species that thrives in nutrient-rich water with adequate levels of iron, nitrates, phosphates, and potassium. However, it is not winter hardy and is unsuitable for outdoor use in colder climates.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, E. palaefolius can be utilized as a semi-emersed plant in the background of aquariums or large paludariums. Its distinctive appearance and rapid growth make it suitable for creating lush greenery in these setups. The plant's ability to develop ramifying flower stalks with small flowers adds interest to the aquascape, especially as it produces adventitious plants along the stalks.
Propagation
Propagation of E. palaefolius can be achieved through proliferating inflorescences, rhizome division, splitting, or by cutting off daughter plants. This plant's fast growth and ease of propagation make it a popular choice for aquarists looking to expand their aquatic plant collection.
Habitat and Distribution
Found in eastern Brazil, E. palaefolius typically grows as a bog plant in its natural habitat. It is closely related to E. subalatus and shares similar characteristics such as leaf stalk ridges and distinct grooves on the upper side of the leaves. The plant's adaptability to various water conditions and relatively undemanding nature make it a sought-after species for both novice and experienced aquarium enthusiasts.