Brazilian sword (Ranalisma rostrata)

Brazilian sword

Brazilian sword is an aquatic perennial herb often found in shallow water bodies, like marshes. Its slender, submerged stems bear lance-shaped leaves, while floating leaves, when present, are oval with a distinctive pointed tip. Its small, white flowers bloom above water, aiding pollination. This species thrives in still or slow-moving water, where its roots anchor into soft, silty substrates. Adapted to fluctuating water levels, brazilian sword is a resilient example of hygrophytes.

Scientific classification

Species

Brazilian sword (Ranalisma rostrata)

Water plantains and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

White

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Brazilian sword

Distribution of Brazilian sword

Distribution Map

Brazilian sword is primarily native to Southeast Asia, where its presence spans subtropical and tropical regions. Expansion beyond its indigenous range is limited, maintaining brazilian sword as a plant largely confined to its original habitat on this continent.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Brazilian sword

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

Water: Brazilian sword prefers humid environments and consistent moisture, ideally watered weekly. Typically grown indoors, this evergreen plant requires careful watering during its active growth cycle to maintain lush foliage, thriving best in conditions similar to its native tropical rainforests of Brazil.

Fertilize: Fertilize brazilian sword monthly with a balanced nutrition fertilizer during the growing season using a quarter-strength solution to promote healthy growth. Reduce fertilization during dormancy and monitor brazilian sword's response to adjust the regimen, ensuring not to over-fertilize to protect the roots.

Pruning: Brazilian sword thrives with proper pruning, ideally in early to late spring. Remove dead or damaged leaves at the base, preserving nearby foliage. This enhances aesthetics, promotes vigor, controls overgrowth, and aids in disease prevention.

Propagation: Brazilian sword propagation involves sowing seeds in a well-draining substrate with consistent moisture. Seeds should be pressed lightly onto the soil surface, requiring light for germination. Maintain stable temperatures for optimal seedling development, leading to mature and characteristic foliage.

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