ADA IC076 Echinodorus tenellus

ADA IC076 Echinodorus tenellus – Pygmy Chain Sword Foreground Carpet

Echinodorus tenellus, commonly called Pygmy Chain Sword or Helanthium tenellum, is a popular and resilient carpeting plant. It sends out runners to create a dense grassy mat, ideal for bright green foreground coverage.

Plant Specifications

Care & Aquascaping Tips

• Thrives in medium to high lighting—keeps compact and dense under strong light.
• CO₂ is optional, but helps prevent legginess and promotes healthier carpeting.
• Grows well in a variety of water conditions—20–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, adapted to soft or hard water.
• Use nutrient-rich substrate, with root tabs or liquid fertilizers to support growth.
• Maintain stable tank conditions—avoid sudden changes to prevent melting.

Planting & Propagation Recommendations

• Separate runners or cuttings into small clumps and plant ~2 cm apart using tweezers.
• Firmly press roots into substrate to promote strong anchorage.
• Trim runners after daughter plants establish to encourage thicker coverage.
• Combine with low carpeting plants for visual layering or use as low midground accents.