Echinodorus Oriental, commonly known as the Oriental Sword Plants, is one of the most interesting sword varieties to enter the trade in the past 20 years. The spectacular semi-transparent pink coloration of new leaves adds variety & depth to the aquatic gardener's artistic palette. Coloration matures to deep red hues with green veins, eventually developing into deep green leaves with wavy margins. A mutation of the Rose Sword, Echinodorus Oriental is a slow-growing variety which demands strong lighting & a nutrient-rich substrate. Ideal water conditions are a temperature between 65°-82°F, an alkalinity of 3 to 8 dKH, and a pH of 6.5-7.5. A good way to achieve the lighting levels is to illuminate the aquarium with approximately 2 watts per gallon or more using full spectrum (5000-7000K) bulbs. Echinodorus Oriental propagates most often by side shoots coming off the rhizome. They have also been observed with adventitious plants on the peduncle. For the most eye-catching display in the aquarium plants them singly wherever a pop of color is desired.
