Amazon Sword Plant Care: Types, Growth, and Propagation Guide

Types of Amazon Sword Plants

Ok, let’s get this party started by letting you know that I currently have an Amazon Sword Plant growing in my 75-gallon aquarium. I’ve kept Amazon Swords here and there during the time I’ve spent taking care of planted aquariums. *Amazon Sword Plants are very easy to grow.*

I’ve posted this info a couple on times on Reddit and got a bunch of nasty comments. Oh well.

You’re going to get to see non-professional pictures and videos I’ve taken. If you’re looking for a bunch of stock photos you’ll want to look elsewhere.

Classic Sword plants can get huge, even to the point they can take over my 75-gallon tank.

Here I go with “How To” information of Sword plants:

1.   Echinodorus Amazonicus (Classic Amazon Sword)

This is the most recognizable variety and a staple in many aquariums. Its long, narrow, bright green leaves can grow over 20 inches tall, making it ideal as a background plant.

*  Ideal Tank Size: 20 gallons or more

*  Temperature Range: 72°F–82°F

*  Lighting: Moderate to high

2.   Echinodorus Bleheri (Broadleaf Amazon Sword)

Often called the Broadleaf Amazon Sword, this variant has wider, fuller leaves and a bushier shape. It’s perfect for medium to large aquariums.

*  Ideal Tank Size: 30+ gallons

*  Temperature Range: 74°F–84°F

*  Lighting: Medium intensity

*  Key Feature: Thrives even in lower light environments

3.   Echinodorus Parviflorus (Compact Amazon Sword)

The Compact Amazon Sword is ideal for small aquariums or foreground planting. It maintains the same vibrant look as its larger cousins but in a smaller form.

*  Ideal Tank Size: 10–20 gallons

*  Temperature Range: 70°F–82°F

*  Lighting: Moderate

*  Key Feature: Great for nano aquariums and minimalistic setups

4.  Echinodorus Uruguayensis (Narrow-Leaf Sword)

This less common species has thin, grass-like leaves and offers a graceful, flowing appearance under water.

*  Ideal Tank Size: 40+ gallons

*  Temperature Range: 72°F–82°F

*  Lighting: Medium to high

*  Key Feature: Excellent for aquascaping and natural riverbed themes

How to Grow Healthy Amazon Sword Plants

Even though Amazon Sword plants are hardy, proper care ensures long-term health and vibrant growth. Follow these proven aquarium plant care steps:

1.  Use a Nutrient-Rich Substrate

*  Best Substrate: Aquarium gravel substate of just about any kind will work. Most swords, and especially Amazon Swords just want enough of “whatever” to put down roots.

*  Fertilization Tip: The only nitrates etc. my plants get are in the form of fish poop. This said I do add three drops daily (75-gallon tank) of Fluval Plant Micro Nutrients. It gives the plants a bunch of nutrients but I’m most interested in adding iron. It’s clear that iron is important for plant growth.

2.   Provide Adequate Lighting

Lighting intensity affects both the color and size of Amazon Sword leaves. Here is my tried and true method of growing plants in an aquarium:

* Plant heavy right from the start.

*  Light Duration: 6 hours per day

*  Recommended Type: Full-spectrum LED aquarium lighting. I use three super bright Hygger LED strips on my aquarium.

*  Tip: Add tiny amounts of iron based aquarium nutrients daily.

3.   Maintain Proper Water Parameters – this is pretty much a given for keeping fish let alone keeping plants. 

Healthy Amazon Sword growth depends on stable water conditions.

I do 20% water changes weekly. Not sure I need to do that but I do me. 

2.   CO2

*  CO₂ Injection (Optional but highly recommended): Promotes faster and denser growth, ideal for advanced aquascaping.

3.   Trim and Maintain

Regular pruning prevents overgrowth and keeps your aquarium looking clean.

*  Remove yellow or damaged leaves from the base.

*  Trim outer leaves instead of cutting near the crown.

How to Propagate Amazon Sword Plants

One of the best aspects of Amazon Swords is their ability to reproduce easily. Here’s how to propagate Amazon Sword plants naturally and successfully.

1.   Propagation via Runners

The most common and easiest propagation method.

1.  Some mature plants produce long horizontal runners from the base. I’ve never seen a Echinodorus Amazonicus (Classic Amazon Sword) do this.

2.  Small baby plantlets grow along these runners.

3.  Wait until each baby plant has at least 3–4 leaves and visible roots.

4.  Cut them gently and plant them in the substrate.

Pro Tip: Avoid moving the new plantlets too early — let roots grow strong first.

2.   Propagation via Flower Stalks

In ideal water conditions, some Amazon Swords grow flower stalks that extend above the water.

* Push the flower stalks back into the water. Don’t worry, follow my advice and you’ll get many more.

*  Small plantlets develop near the flowers.

*  Once these plantlets grow roots, detach and replant them underwater.

*  Keep lighting and nutrients stable for a smooth transition.

2.   Emersed Propagation (Above Water)

Small Amazon Swords can also grow emersed (with roots submerged but leaves exposed). I wouldn’t do it this way but that’s me.

*  Keep humidity above 80% by covering the container with plastic wrap.

*  Use moist soil or substrate.

*  Slowly acclimate the plant before moving it underwater again to prevent leaf melt.

Troubleshooting Common Amazon Sword Problems

Even with good care, problems can occur. Here’s how to fix them:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best substrate for Amazon Sword plants?

A nutrient-rich substrate like aquarium soil or sand mixed with root tabs is ideal. These plants are root feeders, so nutrients in the base help them thrive.

Can Amazon Sword plants grow without CO₂?

Yes. They can grow perfectly well without CO₂, though CO₂ injection can significantly boost growth and leaf color.

How often should I fertilize my Amazon Sword?

Use root tabs every 4–6 weeks and add liquid fertilizer weekly for a balanced nutrient supply.

Why are my Amazon Sword leaves turning brown or clear?

That’s a sign of nutrient deficiency or inadequate lighting. Add fertilizers, check your light intensity, and maintain a stable pH.

Can I keep Amazon Sword plants with goldfish?

It’s not recommended — goldfish tend to nibble and uproot plants. Instead, pair your Amazon Sword with peaceful tropical fish like tetras or corydoras.