Marble Queen
echinodorus cordifolius
Also known as: ["Marble Queen","Ribbon Plant","Tiger Lotus"]
Overview
A robust aquatic plant with broad, heart-shaped leaves, often used in aquariums and water gardens.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","disease resistant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Genus: | Echinodorus |
| Botanical Name: | Echinodorus cordifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: Indoor or outdoor container in a shaded or partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–11"}
- Misting: Not required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on removing only damaged or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer months to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors, or near an east-facing window indoors. Avoid direct afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
Bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
Keep substrate consistently moist, but not waterlogged; water as top layer dries slightly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
Rich, loamy, organic potting mix with good moisture retention
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is loose and airy; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C). Tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth during active growth; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
Every 2–4 weeks during active growth with liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water propagation in a jar with pebbles.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots or jars, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors or shears.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves; use clean tools; cut close to the stem; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to encourage growth and prevent congestion.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and always allow excess water to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Increase frequency during active growth (spring/summer) and reduce in dormant periods (fall/winter).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, or wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEchinodorus cordifolius is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEchinodorus cordifolius is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known compounds that are harmful to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEchinodorus cordifolius, commonly known as the Marbled Sword Plant, is not considered toxic to humans. It is generally safe for consumption in small quantities, though it is not typically consumed as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Echinodorus cordifolius?
A: As an aquatic plant, it should be submerged in water at all times.
Q: Does this plant require special lighting?
A: It thrives in moderate to high light conditions, especially in aquariums.
Q: Can Echinodorus cordifolius grow in a pond?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for both aquariums and outdoor ponds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | Bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | Keep substrate consistently mo |
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