Contents
Description
Echinodorus Cordifolius, commonly known as Radican Sword, is a popular aquatic plant that belongs to the Alismataceae family. It is native to the Amazon basin and can be found growing in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and ponds. This plant can grow up to 50-70 cm in height and 20-30 cm in width, making it a great centerpiece for aquariums or ponds. It has beautiful green leaves that are shaped like a heart, and it produces small white flowers that bloom above the water surface.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Alismataceae |
| Genus | Echinodorus |
Appearance
Echinodorus Cordifolius has large green leaves that are shaped like a heart, with a pointed tip and a slightly serrated edge. The leaves are 20-30 cm long and 10-20 cm wide, and they grow on a long stem that can reach up to 70 cm in height. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom above the water surface.
Care Guide
Echinodorus Cordifolius is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a great choice for beginners. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant prefers soft, slightly acidic water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures, from 20-30°C.
- Fertilization: Echinodorus Cordifolius is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization. You can use liquid or substrate fertilizers to provide it with essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: This plant prefers nutrient-rich substrate like aqua soil or clay-based substrates. It also benefits from the addition of root tabs, which can provide it with additional nutrients.
- Sunlight: Echinodorus Cordifolius requires moderate to high lighting. You can use LED lights or fluorescent tubes to provide it with the necessary light intensity.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Echinodorus Cordifolius is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues:
- Algae: This plant can be affected by various types of algae, including green algae, blue-green algae, and black beard algae. You can control algae growth by reducing the amount of light or adding an algae-eating fish or snail to your tank.
- Fungal infections: This plant can be affected by fungal infections, which can cause yellow leaves and rotting roots. You can prevent fungal infections by maintaining good water quality and avoiding overwatering.
- Iron deficiency: This plant requires iron to grow properly, and a lack of iron can cause yellowing of the leaves. You can add iron supplements to your tank to prevent this issue.
Habitat
Echinodorus Cordifolius is native to the Amazon basin, where it grows in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and ponds. It prefers to grow in soft, slightly acidic water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. This plant can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures, from 20-30°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Echinodorus Cordifolius grow in low light conditions?
A: While this plant prefers moderate to high lighting, it can still grow in low light conditions, but its growth rate may be slower.
Q: How often should I fertilize Echinodorus Cordifolius?
A: This plant is a heavy feeder and requires frequent fertilization. You can fertilize it once or twice a week, depending on the type of fertilizer you use.
Q: Can Echinodorus Cordifolius grow in emersed conditions?
A: Yes, this plant can grow in emersed conditions, but it will require high humidity and regular misting to prevent the leaves from drying out.
Q: Can Echinodorus Cordifolius be grown in ponds?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in ponds, but it may require some protection from direct sunlight and strong winds.
Related Plants
- Echinodorus Bleheri
- Echinodorus Tenellus
- Echinodorus Amazonicus
- Echinodorus Osiris
References
- “Echinodorus cordifolius.” The Aquarium Guide, 24 Apr. 2021, theaquariumguide.com/echinodorus-cordifolius/.
- “Echinodorus Cordifolius.” Tropica, Tropica Aquarium Plants, tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/Echinodoruscordifolius(003BDT)/4460.
- “Radican Sword Plant Care Guide.” Aquarium Source, Aquarium Source, 22 Feb. 2021, aquariumsource.com/radican-sword-plant/.
