The classic background plant, done the easy way.
The Amazon Sword (Echinodorus grisebachii 'Bleherae', sold as E. bleheri) grows into a broad fountain of green leaves, 20+ inches when mature. It's hardy, tolerates low light, and makes baby plants on its own.
The problem
In inert gravel, swords yellow and stall unless you keep feeding root tabs.
The Father Fish way
The Father Fish method puts the food where a sword wants it: living soil under a sand cap. No tabs, no CO2, no bottled fertilizers.
Your plan
-
Plant it in the sand cap. Roots go about one inch into the sand, not into the soil, with the crown fully above the sand.
-
Wait out the switch. Outer farm-grown leaves may melt in the first weeks, and new underwater leaves follow.
-
Let it grow, then prune. Remove old outer leaves at the base. Replant plantlets from the flower stalk.
What you get
- 1 plant, 7 inches or larger, bare root
- Mature size 20+ inches tall and wide
- Low to medium light. 64–86°F. Soft or hard water.
Why it matters
A buried crown rots. A well-planted sword becomes the backbone of your tank.
Need an instant look? See the Extra Large Mother Plant.
FAQ
-
How big is it when it arrives? 12 inches or larger.
-
Does it need CO2? No.
-
Why are leaves turning yellow? Usually the farm-to-underwater switch, or a buried crown.
-
Will it make babies? Yes, plantlets form on its flower stalks.
