Echinodorus ‘Aflame’: A Striking Red Sword Plant for Bold Aquascapes

Looking to introduce a splash of fiery red into your aquascape? Echinodorus ‘Aflame’, also known as the Red Flame Sword, is a dramatic and eye-catching aquatic plant that brings depth, contrast, and warmth to any freshwater aquarium. With its rich burgundy-to-deep-purple foliage, this plant stands out as a stunning centerpiece or background focal point.

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What is Echinodorus ‘Aflame’?

Echinodorus ‘Aflame’ is a cultivar of the popular sword plant family, developed for its intensely red to purplish leaves and compact growth habit compared to other large Echinodorus species. Unlike some red plants that demand high-tech setups, E. ‘Aflame’ can show vibrant coloration even in moderate conditions, making it more accessible to beginner and intermediate aquarists.

It features broad, oval-shaped leaves that can range from dark maroon to almost black, depending on lighting and nutrients. This makes it perfect for creating contrast against green foliage or hardscape elements.

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Key Features

• Scientific Name: Echinodorus ‘Aflame’

• Common Name: Red Flame Sword, Echinodorus Aflame

• Growth Habit: Rosette-forming, upright

• Height: 6–12 inches (can grow larger in ideal conditions)

• Light Requirement: Medium to High

• CO₂ Requirement: Not required, but enhances color and growth

• Substrate Needs: Nutrient-rich substrate is recommended

• Ideal Placement: Midground to background

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Care Tips

? Substrate: As a heavy root feeder, E. ‘Aflame’ thrives in enriched substrate such as aquasoil or with root tabs.

? Lighting: Medium to strong lighting helps bring out the deep red tones; low light may result in more green or brownish leaves.

? CO₂ & Fertilizers: While not essential, CO₂ supplementation and a balanced fertilizer regime will improve growth rate and leaf coloration.

✂️ Trimming: Remove older leaves at the base to encourage new, healthy growth.

?️ Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Soft to moderately hard water preferred

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Why Choose Echinodorus ‘Aflame’?

✅ Incredible Color Impact: Deep reds and purples that stand out beautifully in any aquascape
✅ Low to Moderate Care Needs: Easier to maintain than most red plants
✅ Great Focal Point: Makes a bold statement in medium to large aquariums
✅ Compatible with Most Tankmates: Safe for community fish, shrimp, and even in cichlid setups if well-rooted

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Ideal Aquascape Uses

• Dutch-style tanks for vibrant plant layering

• Nature-style layouts as a bold color accent

• South American biotopes, especially with other sword plants

• Highlight plant behind green carpeting plants like Monte Carlo or Dwarf Hairgrass

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a beginner aquascaper looking to experiment with color, or a seasoned hobbyist planning your next high-contrast layout, Echinodorus ‘Aflame’ delivers the bold aesthetics and manageable care you need. Its stunning foliage and versatility make it a top choice for adding drama and depth to your planted tank.