Echinodorus “Tricolour”

Scientific name: Echinodorus “Tricolour”

Family: Alismataceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 20 - 40 cm (7.87 - 15.75 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 5.5 - 7.8

Recommended water hardness: 0 - 30°dGH (0 - 535.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 22 - 29 °C (71.6 - 84.2°F)

Preferred propagation method: Lateral shoots

Native to: Cultivated form / Hybrid

Growth rate: Normal

Recommended substrate: Gravel

Lighting requirements: Medium

Ideal placement in tank: Foreground

🌿 Family

Alismataceae

🏷️ Common Name

Echinodorus “Tricolour”

🌍 Origin

This plant is a cultivated hybrid, developed by crossing several species of Echinodorus native to South America. It does not occur naturally in the wild.

📍 Planting Area

Foreground to Midground. Due to its compact size and colorful leaves, it is ideal as a focal point in smaller tanks or as a foreground accent in larger aquascapes.

💡 Lighting Requirements

Moderate lighting is sufficient for healthy growth and color development. Under stronger lighting, the red and golden hues of the leaves become more intense.

🌱 Propagation

Echinodorus “Tricolour” reproduces through lateral shoots (adventitious plantlets) that form along a flower stalk. Once these plantlets develop roots, they can be carefully removed and replanted in the substrate. Nutrient-rich conditions promote faster and healthier propagation.

⚙️ Difficulty

Easy; this hybrid is known for its adaptability and durability in a wide range of freshwater setups. It tolerates a wide range of water hardness and pH, making it beginner-friendly.

📝 Short Description

Echinodorus “Tricolour” is a striking aquarium plant prized for its multicolored foliage. New leaves often appear red or pink with dark speckling, gradually transitioning into shades of golden green as they mature. It prefers a gravel or fine sand substrate enriched with nutrients and appreciates stable water parameters. Though not demanding, adding root tabs or a nutrient-rich base layer will help this plant maintain its vibrant coloration and steady growth. Suitable for most community tanks, it pairs beautifully with green plants and adds contrast to planted layouts.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

• Can Echinodorus “Tricolour” be grown emersed?
  Yes, it can be grown emersed, especially in humid environments like paludariums or during nursery cultivation. However, leaf shape and color may differ slightly from submerged growth.
• How do I maintain its colorful appearance?
  Use moderate to strong lighting and provide a nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs. Good iron levels will help enhance red tones in new leaves.
• Is this plant suitable for low-tech tanks?
  Yes, it’s a hardy hybrid that tolerates a wide range of conditions, making it suitable even for tanks without CO₂ injection—though growth will be slower.
• Does Echinodorus “Tricolour” need trimming?
  Trimming is rarely needed unless the plant becomes too bushy. Removing older, yellowing leaves encourages new growth and better color development.