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Amazon Sword (Echinodorus grisebachii)
Photo: Brianza2008, CC BY-SA 3.0

Amazon Sword

Echinodorus grisebachii 'Bleherae'

Edited by Ivan F. · Reviewed

Beginner verdict

A classic rosette plant that grows large and creates a lush background in a medium or large tank. It feeds heavily through its roots, so a rich substrate or root tablets make a big difference. Give it room, because this plant can easily outgrow a small tank.

Light
Low
CO2
Not Needed
Growth
Moderate
Placement
Background
Max height
12 in (30 cm)
Temperature
72–79 °F (22–26 °C)
pH
No figure published
Needs substrate
Yes

Amazon Sword care mistakes to avoid

  1. Plant the roots but leave the crown above the substrate, or it may rot.
  2. Add root tablets, because it feeds mainly through its roots.
  3. Expect some old leaves to die after planting, which is normal while it adapts.
  4. Give it room. Mature plants can crowd out smaller neighbors.

How it spreads

It sends up flower stems that grow young plants. Pot them once they have several leaves.

Amazon Sword FAQ

How tall does Amazon Sword grow?

Tropica lists growth to about 30 cm (12 in) in a tank, and it can grow larger over time.

What light does Amazon Sword need?

Tropica rates its light demand as low. Most standard aquarium lights are enough.

Why are my new sword leaves dying?

Many are grown out of water, and those leaves often melt back in a tank. New leaves will replace them once it adapts.

Does Amazon sword need root tabs?

It does much better with them, especially in plain gravel, because it feeds heavily through its roots.

Where to buy Amazon Sword

We have not found a store that sells Amazon Sword under its scientific name yet. We add stores as we confirm them.

Live animals and plants travel by courier. Check the store's live-arrival guarantee, and only buy once your tank has cycled (see how to cycle a fish tank).

Some US states restrict certain species. Check our US state aquarium rules table and your state's own rules before you buy.