Echinodorus ‘Ozelet’ Swordplant

Echinodorus ‘Ozelot’ universally known as the Ozelot Swordplant, is a highly popular, decorative hybrid freshwater aquarium plant. Created by crossing Echinodorus schluteri ‘Leopard’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’, it is famous for its large, narrowly elliptical leaves splashed with distinctive dark brown to black leopard-like spots. 

The marbling is darkest on newly unrolling leaves, which emerge in shades of vibrant red, pink, or gold before aging into a deep olive green. Because it is exceptionally undemanding, it is highly recommended as a centerpiece for beginners.

The "Transition Melt" Phenomenon: If your newly purchased swordplant loses its outer leaves or turns translucent shortly after planting, do not panic. Many commercial swords are grown "emersed" (above the water line) at nurseries. Once completely submerged in your fish tank, it will naturally shed its old terrestrial leaves to sprout new, fully adapted aquatic foliage. Simply snip the dying outer leaves off near the base of the crown.