DIFFICULTY Easy–Moderate

A forgiving choice for newer planted tanks.

LIGHT Moderate

Around 9 hours is a useful starting point.

CO₂ Optional

Injection is not normally necessary.

GROWTH Medium

Low trimming needs.

PLANT OVERVIEW

About Helanthium bolivianum

A low chain sword that spreads into a grassy carpet-like patch.

This broad-leaved chain sword sends out runners to form a low, grassy midground-to-foreground patch. It's an easy, low-tech-friendly alternative to demanding carpets when you want a green groundcover without CO2.
Shrimp friendly Nano suitable Low-tech suitable High-tech suitable Fry cover
CARE PROFILE

What this plant needs.

The useful numbers and practical notes, grouped around how you actually keep the plant.

TANK FIT

Placement + size

Primary placementMidground
Typical height3–7 in
Typical width6 in
Suggested minimum tank20 gal
Suggested tank height14 in+
LIGHT + CO₂

Energy demand

Ideal lightModerate
Photoperiod range8–11 hr
Approx. PAR20–55
Injected CO₂Optional
CO₂ benefitModerate
NUTRITION

Where it feeds

Root feedingHigh
Water-column feedingLow
Overall fertilizer demandModerate
Iron demandModerate
MicronutrientsModerate
WATER

Useful parameter range

Temperature72–82°F
pH6–7.8
GH3–15 dGH
KH2–12 dKH
PLANTING

How to plant it.

Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate; root tabs strongly recommended

Heavy root feeder — bury root tabs under the crown; keep the crown above substrate.

GROWTH + PROPAGATION

What to expect after planting.

Propagation

Adventitious plantlets / runners

Acclimation

May drop emersed leaves and regrow submersed ones after planting.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What usually goes wrong.

Nutrient-hungry; pale or holey leaves signal a lack of root feeding or potassium.