Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Background

Given its potential to grow quite large, 'Amazonicus' is best suited for the background of most aquariums. It forms an imposing, broad rosette that can serve as a striking centerpiece or be grouped to create a dense green backdrop. In smaller tanks, it can quickly dominate the space, so strategic placement to avoid shading other plants is important. Ensure sufficient space around the plant for the broad leaves to unfurl.

Botanical form

Rosette

This classic species features a classic rosette growth habit, characterized by long, lanceolate (sword-shaped) leaves radiating from a central crown. The leaves are a vibrant, light to medium green, slightly crinkled along the margins, and can reach impressive lengths. A healthy specimen forms a dense, bushy rosette that provides excellent cover for fish and a striking visual impact.

Growth

Fast

The growth rate of the Amazon Sword is typically fast, especially when provided with optimal lighting, CO2, and abundant nutrients. Under these conditions, it can rapidly produce large, sword-shaped leaves. In lower-tech setups, the growth rate slows to a moderate pace, but the plant remains relatively undemanding. Regular removal of older, decaying leaves encourages continuous new growth from the center of the rosette.

Substrate

High

This plant relies heavily on its extensive root system to extract nutrients, making a rich, deep substrate crucial. A specialized planted aquarium soil is ideal, but a layer of nutrient-rich laterite or soil capped with gravel also works well. The substrate must be at least two to three inches deep to accommodate the massive root structure. Regular supplementation with root tabs is highly recommended to replenish depleted substrate nutrients over time.

Column fertilization

Recommended

While it draws most of its nourishment from the substrate, supplementary column fertilization is beneficial, particularly in mature tanks. Dosing a comprehensive liquid fertilizer ensures trace elements and micronutrients are readily available. This helps prevent deficiencies and promotes the vibrant green coloration of the foliage.

Root fertilization

Required

Root fertilization is non-negotiable for the long-term health of the Amazon Sword. Inserting high-quality root tabs deep into the substrate around the base of the plant every few months is essential. This targeted feeding directly supports the massive root system and fuels the rapid growth of its large leaves.

Trimming

Regular

Pruning should be done by cutting the older, outer leaves as close to the base as possible. This encourages the plant to channel energy into fresh inner leaves. Avoid cutting leaves halfway, as the remaining parts will rot.

Propagation

Runners, Rhizome division

Propagation is primarily achieved through the development of adventitious plantlets on long, flowering stalks (inflorescences) that grow upwards toward the surface. Once these plantlets develop their own small root systems and multiple leaves, they can be carefully snipped from the stalk and planted in the substrate. Less commonly, mature crowns can be carefully divided.

Sensitivity

Moderate

Generally robust, but it can suffer if its crown is buried too deep in the substrate. It may attract spot algae on older leaves if lighting is too intense without adequate CO2. Very soft water might occasionally lead to mineral deficiencies.

Layout role

Background, accent

Acts as an iconic background filler or a strong centerpiece in classic nature aquariums. Its large leaves provide excellent shelter and spawning grounds for fish like angelfish. The bold texture contrasts beautifully with fine-leaved plants.