Echinodorus tenellus

Echinodorus tenellus is one of the smallest members of the Echinodorus genus, producing a dense mass of fine, grass-like leaves that spread slowly to form a natural-looking low carpet. Unlike the larger sword plants, tenellus stays compact — typically under 10 cm — making it one of the few Echinodorus species suited to foreground planting.

It is an undemanding plant, growing under medium light without CO2 supplementation. Propagation is straightforward: the plant spreads by sending out horizontal runners that develop into new rosettes, gradually filling in the foreground area over time. A nutritious substrate supports this spreading habit and keeps the fine leaves a healthy bright green.

Supplied as an established potted plant, Echinodorus tenellus suits aquariums from 40 litres upward. It works well as a low-growing foreground plant in both smaller set-ups and larger layouts where a delicate, grass-textured foreground is desired without the need for CO2 injection.