TROPICA Echinodorus grisebachii ‘Tropica’

Echinodorus grisebachii ‘Tropica’ is a compact and attractive sword plant, ideal for use in the foreground or midground of aquariums. Discovered in the Tropica nursery in Denmark during the 1980s, this unique cultivar has become a favourite among aquascapers for its neat growth habit and rich green foliage. Its small size and distinctive leaf shape make it particularly well-suited for smaller tanks or for creating structured plant groupings in larger layouts.

Physical Characteristics:

• Height: 5–10 cm
• Growth Form: Forms a low, spreading rosette
• Leaf Shape: Narrow, obovate leaves with a slightly bullate (blistered) texture, resembling Samolus valerandi
• Colour: Medium to dark green

Aquarium Requirements:

• Lighting: Moderate to high lighting will encourage compact growth and deeper colouration.
• CO₂: Not essential but beneficial for healthier, faster growth.
• Temperature: 22–28 °C
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Substrate: Prefers a nutrient-rich substrate. Root tabs or aquasoil will support optimal development.

Planting Instructions:
Plant directly into the substrate, making sure to bury only the roots, leaving the crown exposed above the substrate to avoid rot. Space each plant to allow room for the rosette to spread naturally.

Care & Maintenance:

• Growth is moderate and manageable.
• Trim outer or older leaves to encourage new, healthy growth from the centre.

• Minimal maintenance makes it ideal for low- to medium-energy setups.

Propagation:
Propagates by forming adventitious plantlets or runners from the base. These can be gently separated and replanted once they have developed sufficient roots and a few leaves.

Aquascaping Use:
Excellent for the foreground or midground in nano aquariums and aquascapes with a natural or structured layout. Its rounded, tidy growth adds softness and contrast alongside hardscape or finer-leaved plants.

Echinodorus grisebachii ‘Tropica’ is a charming, compact sword plant that offers all the appeal of the Echinodorus genus in a smaller, more manageable form. With its attractive texture and reliable growth, it's a perfect addition for aquarists seeking refined structure and colour in the lower zones of their planted tanks.