Homalomena Broad Cuneate (Red Stem)
Plant Profile
Common Name:Â Homalomena Broad Cuneate Red Stem
Homalomena ‘Broad Cuneate Red Stem’ is a flowering aquarium plant belonging to the same family as Bucephalandra and originating from the waters of Borneo. This variety is highly prized for its broad, spade-shaped leaves and striking deep red stems that provide a bold color contrast against typical green foliage. Highly versatile, it can be grown submerged or emersed, usually attached to hardscape such as driftwood or rocks rather than being buried in traditional aquarium substrate. It's a great pick for the midground or background of freshwater aquascapes, where it will slowly sprout from thick rhizomes to create a lush, architectural presence within a planted tank.
Key Features & Notes
- The vibrant red petioles (stems) offer a distinct visual pop that remains vivid even under moderate lighting conditions.
- Unlike the smaller leaves of most Bucephalandra, this Homalomena provides larger, broad leaves that help fill vertical space in your aquascape.
- Similar to Anubias, it is a hardy plant that thrives in areas with consistent water flow and is very resistant to most herbivorous fish.
- It is a fantastic candidate for high-humidity paludariums and terrariums, where its red stems can be appreciated above the water line.
Care Tips & Preparation
- As an Aridarum-type epiphytic plant it should be attached to rocks or driftwood. Never bury the rhizome in substrate, as this will cause the plant to rot and melt.
- Carefully remove the plant from its pot and clear away all rockwool from the roots. For a deep dive on prepping potted plants, click here.
- Avoid making drastic changes to your water parameters or lighting. Unstable conditions are the primary cause of leaf melt in new specimens.
- While this plant is hardy and low-maintenance, CO2 injection will yield much faster growth. We recommend researching your specific water chemistry to ensure your plant thrives.
- Final size and coloration depend entirely on your specific aquarium conditions. Please note that photos are a representation, and individual plants may vary.
- Please research appropriately to ensure your plant thrives.
Additional Information
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
Family Name: Araceae
Origin: Borneo (Endemic)
Skill Level: Medium
Height: 4+ inches
Growth Rate: Moderate
Light: Medium to High
CO2: Recommended
pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
Propagation: Cut new growth along with roots