Echinodorus 'Paul Kloecker' (Amazon Sword) - Rare Plant

Echinodorus 'Paul Kloecker' is a rare Amazon sword with oval leaves that are green and red. With nutritious soil and bright lighting, the young leaves take on a bright red color, which then turn brown and darker spots appear. It is a compact Echinodorus species and does not grow as tall as other species, with a maximum size of up to 30cm.

This plant is hardy and undemanding to grow. Growth is moderate once established. Colour intensity depends on lighting and nutrient levels. The plant benefits from stable conditions and adequate root nutrition. Low to medium lighting is recommended. CO₂ is optional but improves growth consistency. Best suited as a midground to background feature plant.

Plant the Echinodorus directly into the substrate. A transition period will occur if planting emersed plants, and new underwater leaves will sprout. Roots can be trimmed shorter too for ease of planting, and will regrow quickly. It is a heavy root feeder, aqua soil and/or root tabs are recommended for fuller growth. High lighting will enhance leaf colouration, and CO₂ will promote larger and faster development.

This plant will reproduce naturally. In the first step of the process, it will grow a flower stalk and then flower. Keep stalk submerged, and plantlets will develop on flower stalks. Cut away mature plantlets once large enough and has developed own roots, and replant them in the substrate.