Echinodorus Tenellus – Easy Foreground Chain Sword for Low Tech Aquariums

Echinodorus tenellus – Easy Foreground Chain Sword Plant for Beginners

Echinodorus tenellus, commonly known as the Amazon Chain Sword, is one of the most beginner-friendly carpeting plants available. With its thin, grass-like leaves and low profile, it's perfect for creating a soft green carpet across the foreground of your aquarium.

This hardy, low-maintenance plant spreads via runners and does well in low-tech setups, making it ideal for both novice aquascapers and experienced hobbyists looking to add natural texture to the tank floor.

Lighting Requirements: 4–6 hours/day (moderate light)
CO₂ Requirements: Not required
Care Level: Low maintenance
Fertiliser Needs: Strongly benefits from aqua soil or root tablets
Growth Type: Carpet-forming rosette
Placement: Foreground
Potential Issues: May be eaten by bristlenose catfish, African cichlids, or turtles

Why Choose Echinodorus tenellus?

• Great for Beginners: Easy to care for and propagate

• Natural Lawn Effect: Forms a low-growing, grassy carpet

• Spreads by Runners: Quickly fills in the foreground with lush green growth

• Low-Tech Friendly: Thrives without CO₂ in well-lit tanks

• Ideal for Aquascaping: Complements both nature-style and Dutch-style layouts

Care Tips:

• Plant in nutrient-rich substrate or use root tabs for best results

• Trim runners as needed to control spread

• Ensure moderate lighting to avoid excessive vertical growth

• Keep away from herbivorous fish unless planted in dense clusters

Supplied in 5cm potted portions by Duthie Aquatics — grown and prepared for easy planting and quick establishment.