Anubias Chili
Plant Profile
Anubias Chili is a rare miniature Anubias variety known for its exceptionally small, chili pepper-shaped leaves. Even smaller than Anubias Nana Petite, this variety has a similar appearance to Anubias Pangolino. Its compact size makes it a great choice for nano aquariums, detailed aquascapes, and small spaces in the foreground or midground.
Like other Anubias, Anubias Chili is a slow-growing epiphyte that grows best when attached to hardscape such as aquarium wood or stone. It can also be placed above the substrate, as long as its rhizome remains uncovered. This hardy plant does well in low to medium lighting and does not require CO2 injection, making it a good option for low-tech aquariums. Regular fertilization and CO2 can encourage healthier growth, but are not necessary for the plant to thrive.
Key Features & Benefits
- Extremely compact size makes it suitable for nano aquariums and detailed aquascaping.
- Distinctive leaf shape adds variety to hardscape arrangements.
- Works well tucked into small crevices between rocks and driftwood.
- Can be used to create scale and contrast alongside larger-leaved Anubias varieties.
Care & Planting Instructions
- Lighting: Low to medium lighting is ideal. Avoid intense lighting, as the slow growth rate makes Anubias Chili more susceptible to algae buildup on its leaves.
- CO2: CO2 injection is not required. However, adding CO2 can encourage faster growth and healthier leaf development.
- Fertilization: Regular dosing of a quality liquid aquarium fertilizer can help support healthy leaf and root development. Since this plant grows slowly, consistent but moderate fertilization is generally sufficient.
- Placement: Best suited for the foreground or midground, especially in nano aquariums. Attach it to rocks or driftwood where its small leaves can be appreciated up close.
- Planting: Does not require nutrient-rich substrate. It can grow attached to hardscape in aquariums with inert sand or gravel.
- Propagation: Propagate by dividing the rhizome into smaller sections. Each section should have healthy leaves, roots, and a rhizome to help it establish successfully.
- Maintenance: Remove damaged or algae-covered leaves as needed. Avoid making drastic changes to water parameters, lighting, or nutrient levels, as Anubias can be sensitive to sudden changes.
- Water Parameters: A stable aquarium environment is more important than maintaining exact parameters. Anubias Chili does well across a range of typical freshwater aquarium conditions.
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. nana 'Chili' |
| Common Name(s) | Anubias Chili, Chili Anubias, Anubias Nana Chili |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type / Taxonomy | Rhizome plant (epiphyte) |
| Care Difficulty | Easy |
| Light Requirement | Low |
| CO2 Requirement | Not required |
| Placement / Usage | Foreground / Midground |
| Height / Size | 1-2” |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Water Parameters | pH 6.0-7.5 | Temp 68-82°F |
| Propagation Method | Separate by rhizome |
| Origin | West Africa |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are the leaves of my Anubias Chili turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves can be caused by nutrient deficiencies, sudden changes in water parameters, or natural aging. Check that your aquarium has stable conditions and provide regular liquid fertilization to support healthy growth.
2. How do you prevent algae from growing on Anubias Chili?
Because Anubias Chili grows slowly, algae can accumulate on its leaves when lighting is too strong or nutrients are out of balance. Use low to medium lighting, avoid excessive light duration, and maintain consistent water quality. Adding algae-eating livestock can also help manage buildup.
3. Why is my Anubias Chili not growing?
Anubias Chili naturally has a very slow growth rate, so it may take several weeks or longer to produce new leaves. Consistent water parameters, adequate nutrients, and appropriate lighting will help support steady growth. CO2 injection can encourage faster growth but is not required.