Anubias Nana
Plant Profile
If aquatic plants had a Hall of Fame, Anubias Nana would be sitting comfortably on the top shelf as one of the ultimate 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.
Key Features & Benefits
- Compact dwarf leaves create a timeless, lush green look in foreground and midground zones.
- Durable foliage resists grazing from herbivorous fish, snails, and dwarf shrimp.
- Epiphyte growth allows easy attachment to rocks and driftwood.
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 rhizome above substrate to prevent rot.
- Maintain stable conditions to support smooth acclimation and reduce leaf loss.
- Avoid intense light and ensure good water flow to prevent spot algae on slow-growing leaves.
- CO2 is optional but improves growth and leaf 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. 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 |
Frequently Asked Questions
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.