Melon Sword

The Melon Sword, Echinodorus osiris, is a very beautiful Rosette Plant. The leaves are stemmed in appearance and are slightly rippled along the edges. Mature leaves are green, while new younger leaves have a reddish tint.
Originally from Brazil, the Melon Sword will tolerate hard water and grow in weak lighting. If in strong light, a nutrient-rich substrate and iron-rich fertilizer are required to keep it from being stunted. In this environment, the water temperature should be no lower than 75°F.

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.

The Melon Sword 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, plant them singly, scattered throughout the aquarium.

Quick Stats:
Care Level: Moderate
Lighting: Moderate
Placement: Mid-ground
Water Conditions: 65-82° F, pH 6.5-7.5, KH 3-8
Propogation: Adventitious Plants, Side Shoots on Rhizome
Max. Size: 1' 8"
Color Form: Green, Red
Supplements: Iron-Rich Fertilizer, Substrate Fertilizer
Origin: Farm Raised, USA
Family: Alismataceae

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