Echinodorus major

Description

Echinodorus major, previously known as E. martii or E. leopoldina, is a popular aquarium plant. It originates from eastern Brazil, where it grows submersed in shallow rivulets. The plant can reach up to 60 cm in height and has light green, translucent leaves with an oblanceolate shape. Its distinctive features include undulate margins and long, narrow lower leaf blades with rounded or truncated bases. When cultivated in an aquarium, Echinodorus major grows without producing floating or emersed leaves. The plant thrives in a nutrient-rich substrate and high light intensities (0.4 W/litre or above), although it can tolerate variable lighting conditions if provided with sufficient nutrients. Regular fertilization with iron and trace elements is recommended for optimal growth, which can be further enhanced by adding CO2. The plant can also be cultivated emersed in a wet and nutrient-rich substrate with high light and humidity. Echinodorus major tends to outgrow medium-sized tanks, but its growth can be controlled by removing old leaves and cutting back the roots. Propagation is easy through adventitious plants on flower stalks or rhizomes, which can be cut off when mature. This attractive plant is commonly used in the middleground of an aquarium, where it can be a focal point under strong light.