The Echinodorus 'Little Bear' (often referred to in trade as 'Small Bear' or Jungle Star No. 2) is a magnificent, compact hybrid sword plant prized for its striking deep red to rust-brown new leaves. Unlike giant sword plants that quickly outgrow standard tanks, this cultivar maintains a tidy rosette, making it an ideal centerpiece or midground specimen for hobbyists wanting vibrant coloration without overwhelming maintenance.

Short Description & Highlights

Echinodorus 'Little Bear' is an exceptionally hardy, manageable sword plant well-suited for freshwater aquarists of all experience levels. It transitions from greenhouse green leaves to intense dark red underwater foliage shortly after planting. Thriving best as a heavy root feeder in nutrient-rich layouts, it adds rich, organic texture and warm contrast to any community or planted tank.

Key Product Highlights:

Detailed Beginner Care Guide

1. Placement & Aquascaping

Positioned ideally in the midground or as a focal point in smaller setups, 'Little Bear' forms a neat, dense rosette. Its rich reddish-brown foliage creates a gorgeous contrast against bright green stem plants or dark driftwood.

2. Substrate & Root Fertilization

As a member of the sword family, 'Little Bear' is a heavy root feeder. For optimal growth and deep coloration, plant it directly into nutrient-dense aquarium soil. If using an inert substrate like sand or smooth gravel, supplementing the root zone with regular root tabs or nutrient capsules is essential to prevent iron deficiencies.

3. Lighting & Maintenance

While it adapts to moderate lighting, providing stronger lighting and an optional supply of CO2 will accelerate its growth rate and intensify the deep beetroot-red hue of its emerging leaves. Routine maintenance is minimal: simply prune older, outer leaves from the base as needed to encourage fresh, vibrant growth.