Source: Wikimedia Commons
Echinodorus 'Ozelot'
BeginnerEchinodorus 'Ozelot'
A hybrid sword plant with elliptical black spots on red-brown leaves. The spots are darkest on young leaves and, unlike many spotted swords, persist even in low light. Hardy and suitable for beginners.
About
Echinodorus 'Ozelot' is an Alismataceae cultivar bred by crossing E. schlueteri 'Leopard' with E. 'Barthii'; it does not occur in the wild. Its name refers to the elliptical black spots scattered over red-brown leaves, like an ocelot's coat. Those spots identify it: they are darkest on young leaves and, unlike many spotted swords, persist even in low light. It is a medium to large rosette plant 20–50 cm tall with a rosette 20–40 cm wide, and grows fairly quickly. A plain green cultivar called 'Ozelot Green' also exists, so check the name if you want spots. It is undemanding and good for beginners. It forms plantlets on the flower stalk and can also be propagated by dividing the rhizome. Potted plants are regularly available from specialist shops in Japan.
Size of the Echinodorus 'Ozelot'
The Echinodorus 'Ozelot' grows to 20–50 cm tall; rosette 20–40 cm wide.
Temperature & humidity for the Echinodorus 'Ozelot'
The ideal temperature for the Echinodorus 'Ozelot' is 20〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Cultivated hybrid (E. schlueteri 'Leopard' × E. 'Barthii')
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
20–50 cm tall; rosette 20–40 cm wide
Temperature
20〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Benefits from substrate fertiliser
Growing Tips
Lighting
Spots persist even in low light, but it grows best under medium to high light.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 is optional. It feeds through its roots, so root tabs near the base help.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 20–28°C in slightly acidic water (pH 5–7).
Substrate & Attachment
Plant firmly in the substrate with space around it to spread.
Trimming & Propagation
Propagate from plantlets on the flower stalk or by dividing the rhizome; cut old outer leaves at the base.
Cautions
Do not confuse it with the plain 'Ozelot Green'. Never release plants into the wild.
Echinodorus 'Ozelot' FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Echinodorus 'Ozelot'?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Echinodorus 'Ozelot'?
The ideal temperature for Echinodorus 'Ozelot' is 20〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Echinodorus 'Ozelot' get?
The mature size of Echinodorus 'Ozelot' is 20–50 cm tall; rosette 20–40 cm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Echinodorus 'Ozelot'?
Echinodorus 'Ozelot': watering & fertilizer — Benefits from substrate fertiliser. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Echinodorus 'Ozelot'?
The price of Echinodorus 'Ozelot' varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act or Species Conservation Act. No Echinodorus variety is registered in Japan's plant variety protection database (as of September 2026). Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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