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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

How it spreads

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

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.

Amazon Sword setup

Shop in:
LightLow light

Our sources rate Amazon Sword as a low light plant. These are the lights we chose for a first planted tank.

  • hygger 18W LED Aquarium Light (18-24 inch) US

    Check the voltage: this model is listed for the US. Mains power is about 120 V in the US and about 230 V in Spain, so do not assume it suits another country.

    Maker's details

  • NICREW ClassicLED Plus Aquarium Light US

    Check the voltage: this model is listed for the US. Mains power is about 120 V in the US and about 230 V in Spain, so do not assume it suits another country.

    Maker's details

  • EHEIM classicLED plants 550 mm Spain

    Check the voltage: this model is listed for Spain. Mains power is about 120 V in the US and about 230 V in Spain, so do not assume it suits another country.

    Sold at Kiwoko · Sold at Tiendanimal · Maker's details

  • EHEIM classicLED daylight 550 mm Spain

    Check the voltage: this model is listed for Spain. Mains power is about 120 V in the US and about 230 V in Spain, so do not assume it suits another country.

    Sold at Kiwoko · Sold at Tiendanimal · Maker's details

Why we chose these (Best Light for a Beginner Planted Tank). Nobody here has used or tested them.

SubstrateA nutrient-rich bottom helps it grow, and root capsules placed near its roots are Tropica’s root-feeding option.

We are still choosing products for this.

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.

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.

Amazon Sword facts and sources

Family
Alismataceae
Native to
South America

Sources

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