Anubias Barteri
Plant Profile
As a dependable, beginner-friendly pick, Anubias Barteri delivers time-tested durability and lush green scale for planted tanks. Sporting the iconic heart-to-oval leaf shape seen in smaller cultivars like Anubias Nana, this foundational aquatic epiphyte elevates the look with longer petioles and broader, deep green foliage. Reaching a balanced 4 to 6 inches in height, this epiphyte attaches its rhizome directly to driftwood or rockwork rather than being buried in substrate. Exceptionally resilient in low-tech aquariums, it creates an effortless green transition in midground crevices or background zones across aquariums, terrariums, and paludariums without requiring intense light or CO₂ injection.
Key Features & Benefits
- Classic oval leaves on elongated petioles provide an elegant green transition between foreground hardscape and background stem plants.
- Ultra-resilient epiphyte nature makes it a stress-free option for beginners and a dependable layout anchor for seasoned aquascapers.
- Thick leaves resist grazing from herbivorous cichlids, goldfish, snails, and dwarf shrimp.
Care & Planting Instructions
- Prep the plant by removing it from the pot and clearing all rockwool from the roots.
- Attach to hardscape using aquarium‑safe glue or thread; keep the horizontal rhizome above substrate to prevent rot.
- Maintain stable conditions to support smooth acclimation and reduce initial leaf loss.
- Avoid intense direct light and ensure good water flow to prevent spot algae on slow‑growing leaves.
- CO₂ is optional but improves growth speed and foliage density.
- Learn more about planting these species by reading our guide on How to Plant Epiphyte Aquatic Plants.
- Master long-term care and propagation with the article All About Anubias Aquarium Plants.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Anubias barteri var. barteri |
| Common Name(s) | Anubias Barteri, Broadleaf Anubias, Anubias Plants |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type / Taxonomy | Epiphyte (Rhizome) |
| Care Difficulty | Easy / Beginner-Friendly |
| Light Requirement | Low to Medium |
| CO2 Requirement | Not Required but Beneficial |
| Placement / Usage | Midground Crevices, Background |
| Height / Size | 4 – 6 inches |
| Growth Rate | Slow (1 leaf every 2-3 weeks) |
| Water Parameters | pH 6.0 – 7.5 | Temperature 68°F – 82°F (20°C – 28°C) |
| Propagation Method | Separate by Rhizome Division |
| Origin | West Africa |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I plant Anubias Barteri on hardscape?
Attach the plant directly to driftwood or rocks using aquarium-safe super glue gel, thread, or fishing line. Keep the horizontal rhizome completely exposed above the substrate to prevent rot while the root system anchors to the hardscape over time.
2. Does Anubias Barteri require CO2 or high lighting?
No. Anubias Barteri is a classic low-light plant that thrives in low-tech setups without specialized CO2 equipment. While added CO2 will speed up growth and leaf density, it grows happily in standard low-light aquariums.
3. Is Anubias Barteri safe for cichlids, goldfish, and shrimp?
Yes, Anubias Barteri is 100% safe for all freshwater inhabitants. Thanks to its thick, durable leaf construction, it is one of the best choices for tanks with plant-eating or digging fish like cichlids and goldfish, while providing great cover for dwarf shrimp.