Brazilian Micro Sword – Lilaeopsis brasiliensis (Bunch) Live Freshwater Aquarium Plant

Lilaeopsis brasiliensis, commonly known as Brazilian Micro Sword, is a popular carpeting plant prized for its fine, grass-like appearance and compact growth. Native to riverbanks and stream edges throughout Brazil, this plant can grow fully submerged and forms a dense, natural-looking carpet when provided with proper care.

With its short height and clean green blades, Brazilian Micro Sword is an excellent choice for aquarists looking to create a minimalist foreground or a lush planted aquascape. While more demanding than beginner plants, it rewards attentive care with a stunning lawn-like effect.

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Key Features

Fine, Grass-Like Leaves
Slim, blade-shaped leaves create a natural meadow appearance.

Compact Growth Habit
Reaches a maximum height of about 3 inches (7.5 cm).

True Carpeting Plant
Spreads horizontally to form a dense foreground carpet.

Versatile Growth
Can grow fully submerged or partially submerged.

Aquascape Favorite
Ideal for nature-style and Iwagumi aquariums.

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Benefits

Brazilian Micro Sword adds a clean, professional look to aquariums by creating a low, uniform carpet. Its dense growth helps stabilize substrate, provides grazing areas for shrimp, and enhances the overall visual balance of planted tanks. When properly maintained, it delivers one of the most attractive foreground effects available in freshwater aquascaping.

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Care Guide

Light
High lighting required for healthy, compact growth.

Water Temperature
68–82°F (20–28°C)

Placement
Foreground

Substrate
Nutrient-rich substrate strongly recommended (such as planted aquarium soil or mineral-based substrates).

CO₂
Highly recommended for best results.

Fertilization
Regular dosing of macro and micronutrients required. Root nutrients and water-column fertilizers are beneficial.

Growth Rate
Moderate to slow without CO₂; faster with CO₂.

Maintenance Level
Intermediate to Advanced

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How to Plant

• Separate the bunch into small portions
• Plant individual clumps a short distance apart
• Insert roots fully into the substrate
• Allow runners to spread naturally over time

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Perfect For

• Foreground carpeting
• Aquascaping enthusiasts
• Iwagumi and nature-style layouts
• Shrimp and nano tanks
• Experienced planted-tank keepers

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Why Choose Brazilian Micro Sword?

• Creates a true grass-like carpet
• Compact, low-growing plant
• Excellent foreground coverage
• Highly sought-after aquascaping species
• Natural and refined visual appeal

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Quality Assurance

• Healthy, live plants selected before shipping
• Inspected for quality and vitality
• Shipped fresh and ready to plant

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Live Arrival Guarantee

Your plant is protected by our Live Arrival Guarantee.
If it arrives damaged or unhealthy, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with photos for a replacement or refund.

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Important Notes

• Initial melting may occur as the plant adapts
• Strong lighting, nutrients, and CO₂ are key to success
• Growth will be slow without optimal conditions
• Live plants naturally vary in size and appearance