The history of this plant is very confusing, and there have been many name-errors along the way. Which is frustrating, considering that this is an extremely commendable aquarium plant, and probably the most widely commercially produced sword plant in the hobby today.  The species, Echinodorus grisebachii, is widely distributed in South America, and there are a number of varieties with different submersed growth patterns, but at this point all considered one species.  For many years, Florida Aquatic Nurseries , like most growers, sold this plant under the name, Echinodorus bleheri.  

The Amazon sword plant, as it is more commonly known, is popular because it can grows well a wide variety of conditions in the planted aquarium.  Optimal conditions for E. grisebachii 'Bleherae' would be medium lighting and a regular fertilizer routine. This will produce a large, luxuriant plant. However, the Amazon sword will also grow quite well in much poorer "fish tank" conditions and without supplemental CO2.  In these conditions the plant will stay smaller, but still continue to look good.  For these reasons, Amazon sword plants are a great choice for beginners as midground or background plants in the aquarium. 

Common Name:  Amazon sword plant

Family Name:       Alismataceae

Native To:              South America

Lighting:                Moderate

Requirements:       Undemanding.  Gets large with better care

Growth Form:        Rosette

Growth Rate:          Moderate

Placement in Tank: Mid-back ground