Echinodorus Rose is a stunning aquarium plant with vibrant red-green leaves, perfect for mid or background aquascaping, offering a natural habitat for many fish species.

Detailed Product Description:

• Appearance and Growth
  Echinodorus Rose is a beautiful aquatic plant known for its large, oval-shaped leaves with a striking combination of rose-red and green hues. This plant is a perfect addition to your aquarium, creating an eye-catching centerpiece or a lush backdrop. It typically grows up to 20-40 cm in height, making it suitable for both mid-ground and background planting in larger tanks. The plant’s broad leaves can reach up to 8-10 cm in width, providing excellent shelter and hiding spots for fish.

• Ideal Water Conditions

  • Temperature: Echinodorus Rose thrives in water temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F). This makes it suitable for tropical aquariums.
  • pH Range: It prefers slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, with an optimal pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. However, it can tolerate a range of pH levels without significant growth issues.
  • Water Hardness: The plant does best in moderately soft to moderately hard water, with a general hardness (GH) between 3-12 dGH. This flexibility makes it adaptable to a wide range of tank environments.
  • Lighting Requirements: Moderate to high lighting is ideal for Echinodorus Rose to maintain its vibrant red coloration. Stronger lighting will enhance the red pigments in the leaves, while low lighting may result in a greener appearance. Aim for 8-10 hours of light per day to support healthy growth.

• CO2 and Nutrient Requirements

  • CO2 Injection: Although not mandatory, injecting CO2 into your aquarium will significantly boost the growth and coloration of Echinodorus Rose. It helps the plant grow more robust and maintain its vibrant colors. If you’re looking to maximize its growth, CO2 injection is highly recommended, but the plant will still grow reasonably well in low-tech setups.
  • Nutrient Requirements: Like most Echinodorus species, Echinodorus Rose is a heavy root feeder. Providing nutrient-rich substrate, such as aquarium soil or root tabs, is essential to keep it healthy. A good supply of iron, potassium, and other trace elements will help maintain its bright red coloration. Regular fertilization, especially with root-based fertilizers, is crucial for optimal growth.

• Planting and Maintenance

  • Planting: Echinodorus Rose should be planted in the substrate, ensuring that the root system is well-covered, but the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) is exposed to prevent rot. Give it ample space to grow as it can spread out with large leaves, especially in nutrient-rich environments.
  • Trimming and Pruning: As a relatively low-maintenance plant, Echinodorus Rose does not require frequent pruning. However, trimming dead or damaged leaves is recommended to encourage new growth. The plant may also produce new shoots or runners, which can be separated and replanted if you want to propagate it in your tank.
  • Growth Rate: Echinodorus Rose has a moderate growth rate, which can be accelerated with CO2 and good lighting. It's an ideal choice for aquarists looking for a visually stunning plant that doesn’t require excessive upkeep.

• Compatibility with Aquarium Livestock
  Echinodorus Rose is a favorite among many freshwater fish species because of its broad leaves and dense growth. It provides shelter, shade, and resting spots for your fish, making it an essential part of creating a balanced and healthy aquarium ecosystem.

  • Fish that enjoy Echinodorus Rose:
    • Angelfish: These fish love hiding among the large leaves of Echinodorus Rose. The plant mimics their natural habitat, offering them cover and areas to explore.
    • Discus Fish: These tropical fish prefer planted tanks, and Echinodorus Rose is a great option for their environment due to its large, shady leaves.
    • Tetras and Rasboras: Smaller schooling fish like tetras and rasboras appreciate the shelter provided by the plant’s leaves, making them feel secure in the tank.
    • Cichlids: Some species of cichlids, especially smaller, peaceful varieties, are compatible with Echinodorus Rose, though care must be taken to ensure they don’t uproot the plant.
    • Shrimp and Snails: Aquatic invertebrates like shrimp and snails also benefit from this plant, using the broad leaves as grazing surfaces and hiding spots.

• Aquascaping Uses
  Echinodorus Rose is often used as a focal point in aquascapes due to its dramatic appearance. It is ideal for medium to large tanks where it can stand out. Its broad leaves create an attractive contrast when paired with finer-leaved plants like Java moss or smaller carpeting plants. In a well-balanced aquarium, it adds dimension and depth, contributing to a lush, natural aquascape that mimics a freshwater riverbed.

• Difficulty Level
  Echinodorus Rose is a beginner to intermediate-level plant, as it can grow in a variety of water conditions and doesn’t require overly complex care. However, to maintain its vibrant colors and achieve its full potential, providing adequate light, nutrients, and occasional CO2 supplementation will be necessary.