Echinodorus argentinensis (Amazon Sword) - Plant

Echinodorus argentinensis is a tall sword plant with long, broad leaves that arch outward as the plant matures. It is native to South America and is well suited to larger aquariums where vertical and horizontal space is available. Compared to Echinodorus americanus, argentinensis grows taller and spreads wider.

Growth is moderate to fast in nutrient-rich substrate. The plant forms a large rosette and can quickly become dominant if space is limited. Medium lighting is recommended. CO₂ is optional but improves growth rate. Regular root fertilisation is important.

Plant the Echinodorus directly into the substrate. A transition period will occur if planting emersed plants, and new underwater leaves will sprout. Roots can be trimmed shorter too for ease of planting, and will regrow quickly. It is a heavy root feeder, aqua soil and/or root tabs are recommended for fuller growth. High lighting will enhance leaf colouration, and CO₂ will promote larger and faster development.

This plant will reproduce naturally. In the first step of the process, it will grow a flower stalk and then flower. Keep stalk submerged, and plantlets will develop on flower stalks. Cut away mature plantlets once large enough and has developed own roots, and replant them in the substrate.