Echinodorus cordifolius ‘Tropica Marble Queen’
‘Tropica Marble Queen’ is a variegated selection of Echinodorus cordifolius, the Creeping Burhead or “Radican Sword”. Its longish ovate leaves with heart-shaped base show a pattern of darker and lighter green, also reddish patches. This variegation is more distinct in emersed than in submerged leaves. The emersed plant may get about 50 cm tall, the underwater stage has shorter leaves and petioles. The leaf blades reach a length of about 20 cm.
This Echinodorus is an easy, fast growing aquarium plant. It tolerates hard and alkaline water, but a nutrient-rich substrate and at least medium light intensity are beneficial. It has the tendency to grow out of the water with long-stalked aerial leaves. When these are cut off, shorter stalked submerged leaves will regrow.
Plant Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Submerged and emersed aquatic plant |
| Leaf Shape | Ovate with heart-shaped base |
| Leaf Color | Variegated: darker and lighter green with reddish patches |
| Max Emerged Height | Up to 50 cm |
| Leaf Blade Length | About 20 cm |
| Light Requirement | Medium to high light intensity |
| Water Conditions | Tolerates hard and alkaline water |
| Substrate | Beneficial with nutrient-rich substrate |
FAQ
Can this plant grow well in low light conditions?
No, this plant requires at least medium light intensity to grow properly. Low light will result in poor growth and reduced variegation.
Will the plant grow out of the water?
Yes, it naturally grows aerial leaves above the water surface. These can be cut off to encourage more submerged growth.
Is the pot included with the plant?
Yes, the terracotta pot is included and suitable for both aquarium and decorative use.
Megan Vance –
The plant has grown quickly in my 50-liter tank. The variegated leaves are very striking, especially when the light hits them. I cut off the aerial leaves a few weeks in and now the plant is more balanced underwater. Easy to maintain and looks great in the tank.
Alexandra King –
I was impressed by how fast it spread. The red patches on the leaves stand out well. I keep it in a medium-light setup and it thrives. A bit of pruning is needed to keep it from growing too tall above water.
Paul Miller –
The color variation is beautiful. It fits well with my existing plants. I use a nutrient-rich substrate and it grows steadily. The terracotta pot adds a nice touch to the tank.