Rosette Sword (Echinodorus parviflorus)

Description

Species Background

Echinodorus parviflorus comes from slow tropical waterways and floodplains where the water slips along lazily and the plants settle in like they own the place. In the wild these swords often sit partially shaded under taller grasses and reeds, sending up sturdy leaves that give small fish a miniature jungle canopy. Shrimp treat the base of the plant like a breakfast nook where biofilm always seems to be on the menu.
People have kept it in aquariums for decades because it is one of the most dependable small swords ever produced.

Growth Behavior

This is a compact rosette plant that sends out short, steady leaves from a central crown. It feeds from both substrate and water column but happily grabs nutrients from any decent soil or root tab you toss its way. Once settled it grows with a relaxed confidence that makes other swords look like they are trying too hard.

Size and Growth Form

Height reaches about 4 to 8 inches with a spread of roughly the same. The leaves stay rounded and tidy rather than sprawling. Shrimp perch between the leaf stems and nano fish weave around the rosette like they are running tiny racetrack laps.

Aquascaping Tip

Often placed at the front corners or midground pockets of a tank where its compact size adds soft texture without blocking the view through the layout.

Water Parameters

Temperature 72 to 82 F
pH 6.2 to 7.8
GH 3 to 12
KH 2 to 8
This species is widely cultivated and handles a broad range because farms have raised it in varied water for many years.

Light Requirements

Low to medium light works well. Higher light tightens the rosette and deepens color. Lower light keeps it growing steady and relaxed. It rarely melts unless conditions swing dramatically.

CO₂ Requirements

CO₂ is not required. It grows just fine without it. With CO₂ it perks up and produces denser leaf clusters with more enthusiasm than you would expect from such a calm little sword.

Nutrient Requirements

Loves a nutrient rich substrate and appreciates root tabs over time. Water column nutrition gives it a helpful boost but the roots are the real engine.

Tank Placement

Foreground to midground. Works beautifully in small tanks and nano layouts where larger swords would crowd out everything else.

Why Aquarists Keep It

People love its gentle shape, stable temperament, and the way it creates a peaceful green anchor point in a layout. It offers excellent cover without taking over the whole aquascape.