Echinodorus bleheri, commonly known as the Amazon sword plant, is a true staple in the aquarium hobby. It is highly valued for its broad, lanceolate leaves and its ability to quickly create a lush green backdrop or serve as an impressive solitary plant in the midground.
Care and Growth
This sword plant is known for its rapid growth rate. As a heavy root feeder, it benefits significantly from nutrient-rich substrates or fertilizer tabs placed directly at the root zone. It thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions. While hardy, the addition of CO2 will further accelerate its growth. Be aware that it can eventually become quite large, occupying a significant area of the tank.
Utility and Breeding
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Amazon sword plant is exceptionally well-suited as a breeding substrate for species like the Angelfish (*Pterophyllum scalare*). Angelfish often prefer its broad, vertical leaves for depositing their eggs. I have personally had great success using this plant in community tanks to provide shelter for various fish.
Propagation
Propagation occurs via long flowering stems where small plantlets (adventitious plants) develop. Once these plantlets have grown their own roots, they can be carefully removed and planted individually in the substrate. It usually takes a short period for these new plants to establish themselves before rapid growth begins.
