Echinodorus 'Vesuvius'

No, Vesuvius is an easy, hardy sword that suits beginners. It does not need CO2 and adapts to a range of conditions. For the fullest, most compact growth and the best corkscrew leaves, give it moderate to bright light and feed the roots with root tabs.

Its narrow leaves grow in a tight corkscrew spiral, giving a grassy, curling texture unlike the flat broad leaves of most sword plants. Planted in a group it creates a soft, twisting cluster that adds movement and an unusual accent to the aquascape.

It works best in the midground, where its curling leaves are easy to see. It stays more compact than the large swords, so it can also sit toward the front in bigger tanks. Bury the roots and keep the crown above the substrate so it does not rot.

No, CO2 is not required. Vesuvius grows in low tech tanks without it. Adding CO2 with strong light and steady fertilization simply makes it grow faster and more densely, with tighter, fuller corkscrew leaves.

You will receive a healthy plant with an established crown and several of its signature curling leaves. Leaf length and the number of spirals vary from plant to plant, and a few outer leaves may show minor shipping wear. It settles in quickly and pushes fresh corkscrew growth once planted in a nutrient rich substrate.