plant loving cichlids

Problem you run into is that most cichlids of that size do a good deal of digging. You could keep just about any of the south/central's and they not eat your plants, but you will be re-planting on a regular basis. If your going for a nicely planted tank, why not look into some angles, or discuss. They don't exactly meet the size your looking for, but still impressive fish. HTH

"J"

Try plants that grow on driftwood where the cichlids are less likely to try and remove them. Java Fern, Java Moss & Anubias are some possibilities.

Another possibility is to try plants that develop extensive root systems. Most Echinodorus (Amazon Swords), Vallisneria & Cryptocorynes have very extensive root systems once established. Therein lies the rub. It takes several months for the plants to become established during which time they are subject to being disturbed extensively if not removed by the fish. I have seen these plants kept in with large CA before. The fish will excavate the gravel around the base of the plant when spawning. Since the roots extend several inches beyond the point of excavation they stay put.

Of course even with extensive roots some fish just won't be compatible. I had a pair of managuense that removed the gravel from half the tank and piled it on the other side. In this case either the plant is getting ripped up or burried.

since i have dont have a planted tank you dont have to read what i say but i have read that blue acaras love plants especially live plants and do not eat then. the blue acaras i have never touch my plants and never dig near them.

Discus and angel fish are would be perfect. They live around plants and do not eat them.

Frontosas are perfect around plants and get to be around
15 inches long.

just curious what fish did you go with?

severums, angels, flag cichlids are all good planted tank inhabitants.

If by Flag Cichlid you mean festivum, I have always found these to be plant eaters...