Bucephalandra Kayu Lapis

Common name: Buce Kayu Lapis

Buce ‘Kayu Lapis’ is a rare and distinctive epiphytic plant featuring very thin, almost needle-like, glossy green leaves with heavily undulate margins and robust rhizomes that are nearly as thick as the delicate foliage itself. This variety is easily identified by its oblong, slightly serrated foliage, which often draws visual comparisons to a miniature Hygrophila Pinnatifida due to its unique edges. Kayu Lapis can be grown submerged or emersed, usually attached to hardscape such as driftwood or rocks rather than being buried in traditional aquarium substrate. Its patient growth habit and iridescent potential under quality lighting create a high-value foreground focal point in a planted tank.

Key Features & Notes

• The slender, serrated leaf profile provides a stark visual contrast to the rounded or oval leaves of common Bucephalandra species.
• Due to its exceptionally slow growth rate, this variety is harder to obtain and highly prized among collectors, justifying its higher price point.
• While primarily a lush, glossy green, the foliage can display a sophisticated metallic shimmer when placed under high-quality aquarium LED lighting.
• Like its Bornean relatives, Kayu Lapis is not difficult to care for, but it requires stable conditions and time to reach a mature, sizeable portion.

Care Tips & Preparation

• Bucephalandra is an epiphytic plant that should be attached to rocks or driftwood. Never bury the rhizome in substrate, as this will cause the plant to rot and melt.
• Carefully remove the plant from its pot and clear away all rockwool from the roots. For a deep dive on prepping potted plants, click here.
• Avoid making drastic changes to your water parameters or lighting. Unstable conditions are the primary cause of leaf melt in new specimens.
• While this plant is hardy and low-maintenance, CO2 injection will yield much faster growth. We recommend researching your specific water chemistry to ensure your plant thrives.
• Final size and coloration depend entirely on your specific aquarium conditions. Please note that photos are a representation, and individual plants may vary.
• Please research appropriately to ensure your plant thrives.

Additional Information
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. We encourage you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!

Family Name: Araceae
Origin: Borneo (Endemic)
Skill Level: Easy
Growth Rate: Very Slow
Light: Low to Medium
CO2: Not necessary but recommended
pH Range: 6.0 – 8.0
Propagation: Divide the rhizome with sharp scissors