Bolivian Chain Sword (Helanthium bolivianus “Quadricostatus”) – Bare Root
Bolivian Chain Sword is larger and has broader leaves than Pygmy Chain Sword, and it is a great carpeting plant for the aquascape!
Bolivian Chain Sword (Helanthium bolivianus “Quadricostatus”, formerly known as Echinodorus bolivianus) is a long-celebrated carpeting foreground plant in the aquarium hobby due to its ease of care and attractive grass-like appearance. This prolific plant can thrive under moderate or high lighting and does not have any special requirements beyond nutrient-rich substrate (which is a requirement of most aquatic plants with roots). It propagates through runners and plantlets, which can be clipped and replanted elsewhere in the aquarium. It can also be planted emersed in terrariums, paludariums, and viquariums.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Helanthium bolivianus “Quadricostatus” |
| Plant Type | Foreground carpeting plant |
| Light Requirement | Moderate to high |
| Substrate | nutrient-rich |
| Propagation | Runners and plantlets |
| Emersed Use | Terrariums, paludariums, viquariums |
FAQ
Can Bolivian Chain Sword be grown in a terrarium?
Yes, it can be planted emersed in terrariums, paludariums, and viquariums.
What lighting conditions does it require?
It thrives under moderate to high lighting conditions.
Does it need special substrate?
It requires a nutrient-rich substrate, which is standard for most aquatic plants with roots.




Harry Reid –
Grew quickly in my aquarium with moderate lighting. The leaves spread out nicely and cover the foreground well. Easy to maintain and I clipped a few plantlets to add to another tank.
Tracey Dowd –
Great for carpeting the bottom. The plant spreads through runners and I didn’t have to worry about replanting. Works well in a mixed planted tank.
Anthony Cornish –
Planted it in a paludarium and it’s doing well in emersed conditions. The leaves are lush and it’s become a staple in my setup.