Anubias Barteri 'Coffeefolia'
Plant Profile
Featuring deeply ribbed foliage that mimics real coffee plant leaves, Anubias Barteri Coffeefolia is a distinctive, textured standout among Anubias aquarium plants. A sought-after cultivar of standard Anubias Barteri, this variant is renowned for its corrugated leaf ridges and dramatic bronze-to-copper new shoots that gradually transition into deep emerald green. Reaching up to 7 inches in height with wide, prominent leaf blades, this epiphyte anchors its rhizome onto rock or wood rather than taking root in substrate. Thriving under low to moderate lighting, it provides structural depth and tactile contrast as a midground anchor in planted aquariums, terrariums, and paludariums.
Key Features & Benefits
- Deeply rippled, corrugated leaf surface creates distinctive visual and tactile depth in planted aquascapes.
- Broad structure establishes a prominent midground anchor that bridges foreground carpeting and tall stems.
- Thick, rugged foliage easily resists nibbling from boisterous fish, herbivorous cichlids, goldfish, and snails.
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 completely exposed above substrate to prevent rot.
- Maintain stable water conditions to support smooth acclimation and protect developing leaf buds.
- Position in moderate water circulation and avoid excessive direct lighting to prevent algae accumulation on slow-growing leaf ridges.
- CO₂ is optional but significantly accelerates leaf production and deepens leaf ribbing.
- 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. 'Coffeefolia' |
| Common Name(s) | Anubias Coffeefolia, Coffee Leaf Anubias |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type / Taxonomy | Epiphyte (Rhizome / Textured Midground) |
| Care Difficulty | Easy / Beginner-Friendly |
| Light Requirement | Low to Medium |
| CO2 Requirement | Not Required but Beneficial |
| Placement / Usage | Foreground Accent, Hardscape Crevices, Midground Focal Point |
| Height / Size | 4 – 7 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 / Cultivar |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are the new leaves on my Anubias Coffeefolia brownish-red?
This copper, reddish-brown hue is a normal, healthy characteristic of emerging Anubias Coffeefolia leaves. As the leaf unfurls and strengthens its cuticle layer under light, it synthesizes chlorophyll and transitions into its permanent glossy forest-green color.
2. How do I prevent algae from collecting inside the corrugated leaf ridges of Coffeefolia?
Due to the ribbed indentations on Coffeefolia foliage, debris and green spot algae can settle in low-flow areas or under direct, intense light. Mount the plant in partial shade, such as beneath taller stem plants or hardscape overhangs, and maintain moderate, continuous water movement across the crown.
3. Can Anubias Coffeefolia be used as a background plant in smaller tanks?
Yes. Because its broad leaves span 2 to 3 inches across on 4-to-7-inch stems, it forms a full, dense canopy that can easily serve as a background anchor in tanks 10 to 20 gallons, while functioning as a midground focal point in larger setups.