Echinodorus "Rubin"

Echinodorus 'Rubin' is a cultivar bred for intense, persistent red colouration. Its large, ovate leaves emerge a deep crimson-red and mature to a rich burgundy-red, retaining far more colour than many red sword plants that eventually revert to green. It grows to a medium-large size of 25–40 cm and suits tanks of 80 litres and above. The plant responds very well to root fertilisation and benefits from adequate lighting to maintain its impressive colour. It is propagated by plantlets produced on long flower stalks.

Light: Medium to high (40–70 PAR); deep red colour is maintained best under brighter lighting. CO2: Beneficial; injection supports larger, more vibrant leaves. Fertiliser: Root tabs every 3 months; liquid fertiliser with elevated iron weekly to sustain leaf colour. Planting: Background or midground specimen; plant singly with ample surrounding space; expose the crown. Growth: Reaches 25–40 cm; prune old leaves at the base and sever daughter plants from runners once rooted.