Ozelot Sword (Echinodorus ozelot)

Quick Facts::  Ozelot Sword (Echinodorus ozelot)

Care Level:Moderate
Lighting:Medium To High
Placement:Mid-ground
Maximum Length:20″
Water Conditions:73-83 F, pH 6.5-7.5, KH 3-8
Propagation:Adventitious Shoots, Rhizome Division, Seeds
Coloration:Green
Supplements:Iron,CO2 Supplementation
Origin:South America




Characteristics
Echinodorus ozelot is also known as Ozelot Sword is a hybrid between Echinodorus schlueteri 'Leopard' and Echinodorus barthii, which is what gave it the marbled spots on the elongated green leaves. This plant has a beautiful red-brown leaves with black spots and as the leaves age, they will gradually transform to a shiny-green, but will retain their dark spots. These plants are amphibious, meaning they can grow partially above the water.




Water Conditions
73-83° F
KH 3-8
pH 6.5-7.5

Care
Provide a medium amount of light in the range of 3 watts per gallon, using full spectrum bulbs.Ideal water conditions are a temperature between 73°-83°F, an alkalinity of 3 to 8 dKH, and a pH of 6.5-7.5. These plants benefit from regular additions of CO2 and iron rich fertilizers.



Propagation
Propagation of the Ozelot Sword (Echinodorus ozelot) is relative easy. It can be propagated by dividing the rhizome or by separating side shoots that grow off of leaves. Allow the new plant to develop a root system prior to separating it from the mother plant. Once the new plant establishes a root system, cut it at the root with very sharp, sterilized scissors and replant the "baby". A prolific plant under most circumstances, the development of a new leaf once a week is not uncommon.