Amazon Sword Care Guide: How to Grow Healthy, Beautiful Aquarium Plants

Amazon Sword plants are one of the most popular freshwater aquarium plants, and it's easy to see why! With their large, vibrant green leaves and beautiful natural appearance, they're perfect for creating a lush underwater environment.

Whether you're setting up your first planted aquarium or adding greenery to an established tank, Amazon Swords are an excellent choice.

Here's everything you need to know to help your Amazon Sword plants thrive!

What Are Amazon Sword Plants?

Amazon Swords belong to the Echinodorus genus and are known for their broad, sword-shaped leaves. These plants grow from a central crown and can become impressive centerpiece or background plants.

They're especially popular among beginners because they don't require CO₂ injection or complicated equipment to grow successfully.

With proper care, Amazon Swords can grow over 20 inches tall, making them ideal for larger aquariums.

1. How to Plant Amazon Swords

Planting your Amazon Sword correctly is one of the most important steps toward healthy growth.

Unlike plants such as Anubias or Java Fern, Amazon Swords absorb a significant amount of nutrients through their roots.

To plant them correctly, gently bury the roots in your aquarium substrate while keeping the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) exposed.

Pro Tip: Amazon Swords are heavy root feeders! Adding root tabs near their roots can help encourage healthy, vibrant growth, especially in sand or gravel substrates.

2. How Much Light Do Amazon Swords Need?

Amazon Swords generally do well under low to moderate aquarium lighting, although stronger lighting can encourage faster growth when sufficient nutrients are available.

For most aquariums, starting with 6–8 hours of light per day is a good approach.

If your plant is growing slowly, check that it's receiving enough light and nutrients. If algae begins appearing on the leaves, consider adjusting your lighting schedule.

Consistency is key!

3. Why Are My Amazon Sword Leaves Melting?

If you've recently added an Amazon Sword to your aquarium and noticed its leaves turning yellow, brown, or transparent, don't panic!

Many Amazon Swords are grown emersed, meaning their leaves develop above water before they're placed into an aquarium.

Once submerged, these original leaves may begin to deteriorate as the plant adjusts to underwater growth.

Here's what you should do:

• Trim away severely damaged or decaying leaves.

• Maintain consistent water conditions.

• Provide adequate lighting and root nutrition.

• Watch for new green leaves emerging from the center.

As long as the crown and roots remain healthy, your Amazon Sword may recover and produce fresh underwater growth.

4. How Big Do Amazon Swords Grow?

Amazon Swords can grow surprisingly large!

Depending on the variety and aquarium conditions, mature plants can reach 12–20 inches tall or even larger.

Their broad leaves provide excellent shelter for fish while creating a natural, jungle-like appearance.

Because of their size, Amazon Swords are typically best placed toward the middle or back of an aquarium, where they have plenty of room to spread.

5. How to Keep Your Amazon Swords Healthy

The best part about Amazon Swords is that they don't require complicated care routines.

A few simple habits can make a big difference:

• Use Root Tabs: Supply nutrients directly to the roots to support healthy growth.

• Keep the Crown Exposed: Avoid burying the base of the leaves beneath the substrate.

• Trim Damaged Leaves: Remove dying leaves so the plant can focus on healthy new growth.

• Maintain Consistent Lighting: Aim for a regular lighting schedule.

• Give Them Space: Allow enough room for their large leaves and extensive root systems.

With the right conditions, Amazon Swords can become a beautiful, long-lasting addition to your aquarium.

Bring Your Aquarium to Life With Amazon Swords!

Amazon Swords are a fantastic choice for aquarists looking to create a lush, natural-looking freshwater aquarium.

Their impressive size, beautiful green leaves, and beginner-friendly care requirements make them a favorite among aquarium hobbyists.

Ready to add some greenery to your tank?

Shop Amazon Sword Plants at Marcus Fish Tanks →

Happy Planting!

The Marcus Fish Tanks Team