Echinodorus decumbens pointy sword

Echinodorus decumbens — commonly referred to as the Pointy Sword Plant — is a rare and elegant Echinodorus species distinguished by its long, narrow, pointed leaves. Unlike broader-leaved sword plants, this species adds a fine-textured, grassy dynamic to the aquascape while maintaining the hardy, rooted nature of sword plants.

🌿 Overview

• Common Name: Pointy Sword, Echinodorus decumbens
• Scientific Name: Echinodorus decumbens
• Type: Rosette
• Origin: South America (Brazil)
• Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
• Light Requirement: Medium to High
• CO₂ Requirement: Optional, but promotes faster and fuller growth

🌊 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to Moderately Hard
• Placement: Background (or large midground in big tanks)
• Substrate: Nutrient-rich (root tabs highly recommended)

🌱 Care Notes

• Leaf Shape: Long, narrow, sword-like blades—much more slender than traditional swords
• Height: Can reach 12–20 inches (30–50 cm)
• Trimming: Remove old or damaged leaves at the base to encourage new growth
• Propagation: Forms runners with daughter plants or can be divided at the base

🌈 Appearance & Aquascaping Use

• Provides vertical movement and fine-line contrast in aquascapes
• Pairs well with broader-leaved plants and hardscape elements
• Ideal for background planting in nature-style tanks or South American biotopes

🐠 Benefits in Aquarium

• Offers cover for fish and fry
• Roots deeply, helping stabilize substrate
• Can help outcompete algae by absorbing excess nutrients