Echinodorus Barta

Echinodorus Barth, scientific name Echinodorus x barthii. The plant first appeared on the market in 1984 under the trade name Echinodorus osiris cristifolia. However, later Dr. Helmut Mühlberg of the University of Halle-Wittenberg determined that it was in fact a hybrid not found in nature. He gave it a new name, fixed in the aquarium trade, in honor of the breeder of tropical plants Dessau Hans Barth.

According to a 2011 DNA analysis of this plant, it is a hybrid between a variety of Echinodorus uruguayensis in terms of seeds and Echinodorus maculatus in terms of pollen.

Echinodorus Barth forms small bushes 10–20 cm high and 20–40 cm wide. Underwater leaves, collected in a rosette, have a narrow elliptical shape with elongated petioles. Young leaves become rich dark red-brown colors. Coloring can be preserved in older leaves. As a rule, leaf blades are folded at the edges.

Perfect for most freshwater tropical aquariums, usually used for medium shots, contrasting nicely with green shots. Successful cultivation is possible in mixed soil (coarse sand and fine gravel) at least 4-5 cm thick, the use of root dressing is recommended, especially in a young aquarium. The lighting is bright, the stronger it is, the darker and richer the color of the leaves.