Echinodorus 'Red Flame'

Echinodorus 'Red Flame' is a high-colour cultivar producing new leaves in intense shades of red-orange that gradually deepen and then transition to dark olive-green as they mature. The contrast between the vivid young central leaves and the dark, mature outer leaves creates a dynamic colour gradient that changes continuously as the plant grows. Under good conditions it reaches 25–40 cm and serves as an eye-catching midground focal point.

The red and orange tones are most intense under medium-to-bright lighting with consistent iron and micronutrient availability. Without adequate iron the new growth tends to fade to pale yellow-orange rather than developing the full flame-like intensity the cultivar is named for. CO2 injection is beneficial for sustaining vigorous growth and maximising colour expression.

Red Flame is compatible with a wide range of South American fish species and complements tetras, discus, and angelfish particularly well in planted community setups. Its colouration also creates striking contrast against carpeting species such as Hemianthus callitrichoides or Eleocharis.

Light: Medium to high (45–75 PAR); essential for full red-orange colour expression. CO2: Beneficial (15–25 mg/L); significantly improves growth rate and colour intensity. Fertilisation: Root tabs every 3 months; weekly liquid iron is critical for vibrant new-leaf colour. Placement: Midground focal point; plant singly or in pairs spaced 15 cm apart. Propagation: Flower stalks produce daughter plants — sever once roots are 2+ cm long.