Echinodorus grandifolius – Grandifolius Sword Aquarium Plant

Echinodorus grandifolius – Grandifolius Sword Aquarium Plant

The Echinodorus grandifolius, commonly known as the Grandifolius Sword, is a bold and beautiful Amazon Sword species prized for its broad, bright green leaves and impressive size. Perfect as a centerpiece plant, it adds a dramatic, lush appearance to medium and large freshwater aquariums.

Native to South America, this hardy species thrives in moderate to high lighting and appreciates a nutrient-rich substrate or regular root tab fertilization. Once established, it produces strong, vibrant foliage and occasionally sends up flower stalks that can form baby plantlets for easy propagation.

🌿 Key Features:

• Large, broad-leaf sword perfect for centerpiece placement
• Hardy and adaptable—great for beginners and experienced aquascapers
• Tolerates a wide range of water parameters
• Propagates easily via side shoots or plantlets
• Excellent oxygenator and nitrate absorber

🌡️ Care Guidelines:

• Light: Moderate to High
• Temperature: 72°–82°F
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Placement: Background or Centerpiece
• Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
• Substrate: Nutrient-rich soil or supplemented with root tabs

💡 Pro Tip: Provide consistent lighting and root nutrition for best color and leaf size. Trim older leaves near the base to encourage new, healthy growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: How large does Echinodorus grandifolius get?
A: Leaves can grow 16–20 inches long, making it ideal for large tanks.

Q: Does it need CO₂ injection?
A: Not required, but CO₂ and liquid fertilizers will promote faster, fuller growth.

Q: Can it grow emersed?
A: Yes—like most swords, it can grow partially out of the water in open-top tanks or paludariums.

Q: Is it safe for shrimp or snails?
A: Completely safe and provides excellent natural cover.

Q: How do I propagate it?
A: Trim and replant small plantlets that grow on flower stalks or side runners.