Description
Plant Profile
Unlike massive background swords that threaten to breach the waterline, Echinodorus xinguensis, commonly known as the Xingu Sword or Dwarf Amazon Sword, brings classic sword plant structure down to a manageable scale. Native to South America, this uncommon species maxes out around 12 inches tall, making it a versatile midground centerpiece or foreground accent in medium-to-large aquariums. Its bright green leaves look like a bold, lush grass with distinct structural depth. Naturally hardy and forgiving, it offers a refreshing alternative to standard foreground species without demanding complex high-tech equipment.
Key Features & Notes
Compact scale allows flexible placement in midground and foreground zones.
Hardy species that adapt smoothly across a wide range of water parameters without mandatory CO2.
Care & Planting Instructions
Prep the plant by removing it from the pot and clearing all rockwool from the roots.
Plant individual crowns into your aquarium soil, making sure the root crown rests just above the substrate line to prevent rot.
All Echinodorus are heavy root feeders that rely on rich substrate nutrition; placing root tabs near the base supports steady growth and vibrant leaf color.
Supplemental CO2 injection accelerates growth and encourages denser, fuller leaves, though the plant will still grow steadily in low-tech setups.
Watch for yellowing or pale foliage, as this species can be sensitive to iron deficiencies; supplemental liquid iron or iron-rich root tabs restore rich green coloration.
Trim spreading runner shoots with sharp aquascaping scissors to control its footprint or replant plantlets elsewhere.
Final size and growth density depend on your specific aquarium conditions; please note that individual plants may vary based on tank conditions.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
Attribute
Specification
Scientific Name
Echinodorus xinguensis
Common Name(s)
Xingu Sword, Dwarf Amazon Sword
Family
Alismataceae
Plant Type / Taxonomy
Rosette / Runner plant
Care Difficulty
Easy
Light Requirement
Moderate
CO2 Requirement
Not required (Optional)
Placement / Usage
Midground / Foreground Accent
Height / Size
6–12 inches
Growth Rate
Fast
Water Parameters
pH 6.5–7.5
Propagation Method
Separate and replant lateral runner plantlets
Origin
South America (Xingu River Basin)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are the leaves on my Echinodorus xinguensis turning pale yellow or droopy?
Yellowing or drooping leaves are a classic sign of iron deficiency in Dwarf Amazon Swords. Supplementing the substrate with iron-rich root tabs or dosing liquid iron will quickly restore bright green, healthy foliage.
2. How does Echinodorus xinguensis propagate, and how do I trim runners?
Unlike large Amazon Swords that often produce plantlets on floral stalks, this dwarf species spreads via subterranean runner chains across the substrate. Once baby plantlets develop roots, cut the connecting runner line with scissors to isolate or relocate them.
3. Can this plant grow in low-tech aquariums without CO2?
Yes, this species thrives in low-tech aquariums without pressurized CO2, provided it receives adequate root supplementation and consistent lighting.
