Description
Echinodorus ‘Ozelot’
Description:
Echinodorus ‘Ozelot’ is a striking and popular sword plant hybrid known for its unique spotted foliage and bold coloration. Featuring broad, oval leaves marked with dark red to black leopard-like spots, this plant brings vibrant visual contrast and texture to freshwater aquariums. It’s ideal as a midground to background feature in medium to large tanks and stands out beautifully against green plants and hardscape elements.
New leaves of Echinodorus ‘Ozelot’ often emerge in bright red or reddish-brown tones, with the characteristic spots remaining visible as the leaves mature to deep olive or green. The plant can grow to about 12–18 inches tall, depending on tank conditions. It is undemanding and thrives in nutrient-rich substrate with moderate to high lighting. Iron-rich root tabs enhance the red tones and overall vibrancy.
‘Ozelot’ is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced aquascapers due to its hardiness, easy care, and dramatic appearance. It may produce flower stalks with plantlets under the right conditions, offering a simple way to propagate more plants.
Care Tips:
Lighting: Moderate to high lighting enhances coloration and spotting.
Substrate: Requires nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs for healthy growth.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 72°F–82°F
pH: 6.5–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Tank Size: Best for 20+ gallon tanks due to height and leaf spread.
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast.
Maintenance: Trim back old leaves and remove flower stalks or plantlets as desired.
Echinodorus ‘Ozelot’ adds bold color and exotic patterning to any planted aquarium. Whether used as a showpiece or to enhance contrast in natural aquascapes, it’s a rewarding, hardy plant that looks stunning year-round.
