Grandiflorus Sword
echinodorus grandiflorus
Also known as: ["Grandiflorus","Grand Sword"]
Overview
A large aquatic plant with broad, arrow-shaped leaves and impressive white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Genus: | Echinodorus |
| Botanical Name: | Echinodorus grandiflorus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: aquatic garden or indoor aquarium
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"20–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: not required, but beneficial if ambient humidity is low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy mixes.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or when dead foliage accumulates.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only damaged or decaying parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; monitor for signs of light stress.
Watering
keep substrate consistently moist, but not waterlogged
Water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
aquarium substrate or loamy, organic-rich soil
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); cooler temperatures in winter (55–65°F) can induce dormancy.
Avoid drafts; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during growing season with liquid aquarium fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth and maintain plant health.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife.
Checklist
Inspect for dead leaves; sterilize tools; prune carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; promotes fresh soil and root health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning, stunted growth, bud drop, or wilting.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and reduce watering to prevent cold-related root rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; excessive heat can cause premature flowering or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently to combat heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEchinodorus grandiflorus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEchinodorus grandiflorus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEchinodorus grandiflorus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in aquariums and water gardens without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Echinodorus grandiflorus suitable for aquariums?
A: Yes, it is commonly used in aquariums and ponds due to its aquatic nature.
Q: How often should I fertilize this plant?
A: Fertilize monthly during growing season with aquatic plant fertilizer.
Q: Does it require special lighting?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light or moderate to high aquarium lighting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Alismataceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | keep substrate consistently mo |
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