If aquatic plants had a Hall of Fame, Anubias Nana would be comfortably on the top shelf as one of the best aquarium plants for beginners. Native to the riverbanks of West Africa, "nana" translates to "dwarf" in Latin, and true to its name, this compact icon stays smaller and tidier than its big sibling Anubias Barteri. Featuring small, glossy, teardrop-shaped leaves on short stems, it serves as a detailed filler for tucking into driftwood nooks, securing onto lava rock, or brightening up nano aquariums. Virtually indestructible and comfortable growing submerged in water or emersed in humid terrariums, it is hands-down one of the best low-maintenance plants.
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. nana |
| Common Name(s) | Anubias Nana |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type / Taxonomy | Epiphyte (Rhizome) |
| Care Difficulty | Beginner / Easy (Low-Tech Compatible) |
| Light Requirement | Low to Moderate |
| CO2 Requirement | Not Required (Beneficial for faster growth) |
| Placement / Usage | Foreground, Nano Hardscape, Midground Crevices |
| Height / Size | 3"–5" (7.5–13 cm) |
| Growth Rate | Slow (1 leaf every 2-4 weeks) |
| Water Parameters | pH 6.0–7.5 | Temperature 68°F–82°F (20°C–28°C) |
| Propagation Method | Rhizome Division |
| Origin | West Africa |
1. Why is Anubias Nana considered one of the best aquarium plants for beginners?
Anubias Nana is extremely resilient, requires no pressurized CO2, thrives under basic LED aquarium lighting, and does not depend on nutrient-rich soil to grow. Its ability to tolerate a wide range of water parameters makes it ideal for new hobbyists building low-tech tanks.
2. How do I plant Anubias Nana without causing it to rot?
Anubias species are epiphytes that grow from an elevated central stem called a rhizome. Attach the plant directly to driftwood or porous rocks using aquarium-safe super glue gel or thread. Never bury the rhizome under substrate, as covering it will cause the plant to rot and die.
3. Does Anubias Nana require CO2 injection or high lighting?
No. It thrives in low to moderate lighting without CO2 injection. While adding CO2 speeds up growth and foliage density, it thrives happily in low-tech aquariums, making it a beginner-friendly plant.
Overall rating: 4.798283 / 5 from 233 reviews.
Anubias Nana is a popular aquatic plant known for its ease of growth and adaptability to various environments. Customers appreciate its quality, appearance, and fast shipping. The plant thrives in low light conditions and can be propagated easily. While it grows slowly, it is valued for its healthy leaves and robust roots.
Review topics: [size, color, fit, handled, shipping, quality, looks, service, condition, shape, price, packaged, plants, anubias, order, roots, leaves, growing, rhizomes, melt, addition, experience, green, tank, deaths, buce, pot, snails, specimen, website].
"Like always perfect plants"
"Healthy and arrived on time. Well packed."
"I really liked the size of my anubias because they fit perfectly in my rock"
"The anubias was is great condition. The size rhizome and leafs were excellent. The fit was perfect"
"Great shape. Looks great"
"The Anubias nana was a delight. It was very easy to get started and attach to my rocks and aquascape. The plants arrived healthy with a rich, dark green color, and I loved that some had large, strong leaves. They really helped give my tank a more established look, as if they had already been growing in there for quite some time."
"Very beautiful very healthy plants! So happy with them and will buy again!"
"Came healthy,well rooted, nice size and easy to tie on to wood and rocks."
"The plant came quickly and in perfect shape. I’ll definitely order again."
"All my plants came wonderfully packaged as well as safe and sound. Very good quality of plants. I was very pleased with my order and will definitely buy more plants from Buce."
