Kleiner Bar Sword - Echinodorus 'Kleiner Bar' - Small

The Kleiner Bar Sword is a cultivated hybrid between Echinodorus uruguayensis and the Red Rubin Sword (Echinodorus x barthii, another hybrid). It is also known as the "Little Bear Sword", the English translation of the German name "kleiner bar". Under high light and optimal conditions, this sword develops purplish-red leaves. Under lower light and in older leaves, the color changes to a deeper green. It can grow in both hard or soft water but needs high light and iron and CO2 supplements to keep its vibrant color.

"Sword Plants" come primarily from the Echinodorus genus and are marsh or bog plants from the tropical western hemisphere (North, South and Central America as well as some islands in the region). While there are around 3 scientifically accepted species, many species are cross-bred and propagated by hobbyists and nurseries to create numerous variants and hybrids.

While swords may grow emerged in the wild (with their leaves out of the water), they are well adapted to submerged life in the aquarium as well. Emerged plants grow flowers, while submerged plants will reproduce by sending out runners to grow new plants. Most swords need high lighting to thrive. They also benefit from a nutrient-rich substrate and iron and CO₂ supplements, especially in heavily planted aquariums.

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