Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Background

This giant species should be placed strictly in the background or as a solitary centerpiece in very large aquariums. It requires substantial vertical and horizontal space, as it often breaches the water surface. Smaller plants placed nearby will easily be completely shaded. In open-top tanks, it will readily grow emerged leaves.

Botanical form

Rosette

It features enormous, broad, spade-shaped leaves on long, sturdy petioles. When grown submerged, the leaves are lighter green and slightly softer. As it reaches the surface, the emersed leaves become tougher and more distinctly rounded or heart-shaped. It builds a massive root system to anchor itself.

Growth

Medium

The growth rate is extremely fast when its high nutrient and light demands are met. It can produce several large leaves per month under optimal conditions. The addition of CO2 significantly increases the sheer size and speed of growth. Growth may stall if the substrate becomes exhausted of nutrients.

Substrate

High

The Large-leaf Sword (Aquarius macrophyllus) requires a very deep and nutrient-rich substrate to support its massive size and extensive root structure. A substrate bed of at least 8-10 cm composed of aqua soil or heavily amended gravel is necessary to keep this large plant properly anchored. Because of its sheer mass, it rapidly depletes local substrate nutrients, making the frequent insertion of root tabs vital. A well-fed root zone is the key to preventing nutrient deficiencies and sustaining its large, imposing foliage.

Column fertilization

Optional

While it depends heavily on root nutrition, water column fertilization prevents secondary deficiencies. A broad-spectrum liquid fertilizer helps maintain the health of its numerous large leaves. Potassium dosing is critical, as deficiencies will cause pinholes in the older foliage. Adequate column nutrients also support the growth of submerged adventitious plantlets.

Root fertilization

Recommended

A thick, soil-based substrate or frequent addition of numerous root tabs is mandatory. Place fertilizer tablets deeply and evenly around its extensive root zone every month or two. Insufficient root feeding will lead to stunted growth and premature shedding of older leaves. It is one of the most demanding plants regarding substrate nutrition.

Trimming

Occasional

Regular pruning is required to keep it from dominating the entire aquarium. Cut the oldest, outermost leaves at the base of the petiole to reduce its spread. Remove any leaves that are blocking too much light from reaching the lower levels of the tank. If you wish to keep it submerged, cut off leaves that begin to grow above the water surface.

Propagation

Division

Propagation is usually achieved via adventitious plants that form on its long floral stalks. These stalks often grow above the water surface and produce small white flowers before plantlets appear. Once the plantlets develop roots, they can be carefully detached and replanted. It is a highly productive plant when allowed to flower.

Sensitivity

Moderate

It is quite hardy but very sensitive to nutrient depletion in the substrate. It does not tolerate prolonged shading and will shed lower leaves if light is insufficient. Sudden shifts in water chemistry can cause some leaf melt, though it usually recovers quickly. The massive leaves can occasionally attract spot algae if water circulation is poor.

Layout role

Background, accent

It serves as a dramatic, dominant background feature in large aquascapes and biotope tanks. Its massive canopy provides excellent shade and shelter for larger fish species. In open-top aquariums, its emersed growth creates a stunning, natural riparian look. It is often the primary focal point due to its sheer scale.