Red Flame Sword - Echinodorus sp.

Like the Ozelot Sword, the Red Flame Sword is a cultivated hybrid between Echinodorus schlueteri and Echinodorus x barthii. The Red Flame Sword variant has dark red spots on its reddish-brown leaves in contrast to the Ozelot Sword's more black-brown spots. Young leaves are brighter red and become more green in color as they mature.

"Sword Plants" come primarily from the Echinodorus genus and are marsh or bog plants from the tropical western hemisphere (North, South and Central America as well as some islands in the region). While there are around 3 scientifically accepted species, many species are cross-bred and propagated by hobbyists and nurseries to create numerous variants and hybrids.

While swords may grow emerged in the wild (with their leaves out of the water), they are well adapted to submerged life in the aquarium as well. Emerged plants grow flowers, while submerged plants will reproduce by sending out runners to grow new plants. Most swords need high lighting to thrive. They also benefit from a nutrient-rich substrate and iron and CO₂ supplements, especially in heavily planted aquariums.

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