Sword Ozelot Red – Spotted Red Echinodorus Aquarium Plant
Sword Ozelot Red is a bold freshwater aquarium sword plant known for its deep green to red leaves covered in distinctive dark spotting. Also known as Echinodorus ‘Ozelot Red’, this eye-catching plant adds dramatic pattern, color, and structure to planted aquariums.
As the plant matures and lighting improves, the red tones can become more intense, making Sword Ozelot Red a standout centerpiece or background plant. Hardy and adaptable, this Echinodorus variety is a great choice for beginner and experienced aquarists looking for a statement plant in medium to large freshwater aquariums.
Key Features
- Red and green sword plant with unique dark spotting
- Excellent centerpiece or background aquarium plant
- Hardy and beginner-friendly once established
- No CO2 required for healthy growth
- Heavy root feeder that benefits from root tabs
- Adds bold contrast and pattern to planted aquariums
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Echinodorus ‘Ozelot Red’
- Common Name: Sword Ozelot Red, Red Ozelot Sword
- Plant Type: Rosette / sword aquarium plant
- Placement: Centerpiece or background
- Lighting: Moderate; higher light enhances red coloration
- Temperature: 72–82°F
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Care Level: Easy
- CO2: Not required; optional for enhanced growth and coloration
- Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs strongly recommended
Tank Placement
Sword Ozelot Red works best as a centerpiece or background plant in freshwater planted aquariums. Its large patterned leaves create a strong focal point and look especially attractive against green plants, driftwood, stone, and natural aquascape layouts.
This plant typically grows around 12–20 inches tall depending on tank size, lighting, nutrients, and overall conditions. It is best suited for medium to large aquariums where its rosette growth has room to spread and develop properly.
Lighting, CO2 & Nutrients
Sword Ozelot Red grows well under moderate lighting, while higher light can help enhance red coloration and bring out the plant’s spotted pattern. In lower light, leaves may appear greener with less intense red tones.
CO2 is not required, but optional CO2 can support faster growth, fuller leaves, and stronger coloration. As a heavy root-feeding sword plant, Sword Ozelot Red benefits greatly from nutrient-rich substrate or regular root tabs for healthy roots, strong leaf development, and long-term growth.
Trimming & Maintenance
Remove older, damaged, yellowing, or melting outer leaves near the base of the plant to encourage fresh new growth from the center of the rosette. Regular maintenance helps keep the plant healthy, clean, and attractive.
When planting Sword Ozelot Red, place the roots fully into the substrate while keeping the crown exposed above the substrate line. Avoid burying the crown too deeply, as this can cause rot or plant damage. Once established, avoid frequent relocation so the root system can develop properly.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Freshwater planted aquariums
- Centerpiece aquarium layouts
- Background plant displays
- Red and green contrast planting
- Medium to large aquariums
- Low-tech and mid-tech planted tanks
- Community fish aquariums
Frequently Asked Questions
How large does Sword Ozelot Red grow?
Sword Ozelot Red typically grows around 12–20 inches tall depending on tank size, lighting, nutrients, root tabs, and overall aquarium conditions.
Does Sword Ozelot Red need CO2?
No. CO2 is not required, but optional CO2 can improve growth speed, leaf fullness, and red coloration.
Will Sword Ozelot Red stay red?
Moderate to higher lighting and strong root nutrition help bring out red tones. In lower light, the plant may appear greener with less intense red coloration.
Is Sword Ozelot Red shrimp-safe?
Yes. Sword Ozelot Red is safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish. Its broad leaves also provide natural shelter and structure.
Does Sword Ozelot Red produce runners?
Yes. Mature plants may produce runners or plantlets that can be separated and replanted once they are large enough and have healthy roots.
Should I use root tabs for Sword Ozelot Red?
Yes. Root tabs are strongly recommended because Sword Ozelot Red is a heavy root feeder and needs strong root nutrition for best growth and color.
How do I plant Sword Ozelot Red?
Plant the roots fully in the substrate while keeping the crown exposed. Avoid burying the crown to help prevent rot.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Sword Ozelot Red is a bold, spotted Echinodorus aquarium plant for aquarists looking to add red-green color, dramatic pattern, and a standout centerpiece to freshwater planted tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, and aquarium supplies.
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