Here’s all about Amazon Variegated, commonly known in the hobby as Amazon Sword Variegated — a beautiful, leaf-striped variant of the classic Amazon Sword (Echinodorus species), ideal for planted tanks...
Here’s all about Amazon Variegated, commonly known in the hobby as Amazon Sword Variegated — a beautiful, leaf-striped variant of the classic Amazon Sword (Echinodorus species), ideal for planted tanks needing a bold and decorative background plant.
Common Name: Amazon Variegated Sword
Scientific Classification:
Most often a cultivar of Echinodorus grisebachii or Echinodorus amazonicus
Variegated types are nursery-cultivated hybrids
Family: Alismataceae
Origin: South America (parent species), but variegated types are man-made
Leaf Shape: Long, sword-shaped blades
Coloration:
Green base with creamy yellow or white stripes running longitudinally
Young leaves are often lighter; older leaves deepen in contrast
Plant Size:
Height: 20–50 cm (8–20 inches)
Width: 15–30 cm spread depending on trimming and space
Growth Style: Rosette-forming with tall upright leaves
Parameter | Ideal Range |
---|---|
Temperature | 22–28°C (72–82°F) |
pH | 6.5 – 7.5 |
Hardness | Soft to moderate (3–10 dGH) |
Lighting | Medium to high (brings out variegation) |
CO₂ | Optional but beneficial |
Substrate | Rich in nutrients; root tabs recommended |
Growth Rate: Moderate
Propagation:
Produces runners with plantlets (adventitious plantlets)
Plantlets can be separated and replanted once rooted
Placement: Background or mid-background in tall tanks
Trimming: Prune outer leaves as they age to allow inner ones to thrive
Perfect background plant in medium to large tanks
Adds color contrast through its creamy white variegation
Useful as a focal point in Amazon-style or biotope tanks
Provides excellent cover for fish like:
Angelfish
Gouramis
Tetras
Dwarf cichlids
Use nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs regularly
Ensure strong lighting to maintain variegation; low light may cause fading
Avoid burying the crown (central base) during planting
Remove damaged leaves to encourage healthy growth
Supplement with liquid ferts and iron if leaves pale
Problem | Cause |
---|---|
Faded variegation | Inadequate lighting or nutrient deficiency |
Yellowing leaves | Lack of root nutrients or iron deficiency |
Algae on leaves | Slow growth in high light without CO₂ or ferts |
Melting after planting | Common adjustment period from emersed to submersed |
Safe for shrimp and community fish
May be nibbled by goldfish or plant-eating cichlids
Large leaves create shade and shelter for shy fish and fry
Feature | Detail |
---|---|
Plant Type | Rosette sword plant |
Color | Green with white/yellow vertical stripes |
Lighting | Medium to high |
CO₂ | Not required, but improves health |
Substrate | Nutrient-rich; thrives with root tabs |
Placement | Background (midground in large tanks) |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
Striking striped foliage unlike typical green swords
Hardy and suitable for most planted tanks
Creates a lush tropical jungle feel
Minimal maintenance beyond good substrate and light
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