Amazon Sword Plant
The Amazon Sword Plant is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly aquatic plants in the freshwater hobby. With its broad, vibrant green leaves and striking rosette growth, this plant makes a beautiful centerpiece in medium to large aquariums. Native to the Amazon River Basin, it provides excellent cover for fish and shrimp while improving water quality through natural filtration.
Amazon Swords are hardy and adaptable, thriving in a wide range of water conditions. They are perfect for aquarists seeking a lush, natural aquascape with minimal maintenance.
Care Sheet
Scientific Name: Echinodorus grisebachii (also known as Echinodorus amazonicus)
Common Name: Amazon Sword Plant
Origin: South America (Amazon River Basin)
Placement: Background or midground
Difficulty: Easy
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Water Conditions
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Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
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pH: 6.5–7.5
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Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
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Lighting: Moderate to high
Tip: Stronger lighting promotes fuller, denser leaf growth, while low light may cause taller, thinner leaves.
Planting & Maintenance
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Plant the roots in nutrient-rich substrate but keep the crown above the substrate to prevent rot.
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Add root tabs or nutrient-rich substrate for best growth.
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Prune dead or damaged leaves regularly to encourage new growth.
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Supplement with liquid fertilizers or CO₂ for faster and more vibrant development (optional but beneficial).
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Provide space — leaves can grow up to 20 inches tall in ideal conditions.
Propagation
Amazon Swords reproduce by sending out runners with baby plantlets. Once the plantlets develop several leaves and roots, they can be gently separated and replanted.
Ideal For
- Community tanks
- Natural aquascapes
- Shrimp and planted aquariums
- Beginner to advanced hobbyists
Key Benefits
- Adds lush greenery and natural beauty
- Helps improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients
- Provides shade and shelter for fish and shrimp
- Hardy and long-lasting when cared for properly
