Care guide
Overview
Anubias Nana (Anubias barteri var. nana) is the workhorse of the planted tank — a tough, slow-growing rhizome plant with thick, dark green leaves that shrug off rough treatment. Like Java Fern it attaches to hardscape and must never be buried, and it is hardy enough to survive where almost nothing else will.
Natural Habitat
Native to West Africa, growing along shaded river and stream margins attached to rocks and submerged wood, often partly emersed.
Planting & Placement
Attach the rhizome to driftwood or stone with thread or super glue gel and let the roots take hold — keep the rhizome itself above the substrate or it rots. Heavy and firmly anchored once attached, it stays put in tanks with fish that rearrange the decor.
Lighting & CO2
Low to medium light, ideally shaded. Its slow growth is a weakness under bright light, which lets algae settle on the long-lasting leaves rather than speeding growth. No CO2 needed, though it responds to a little liquid fertiliser.
Aquascape Role & Tankmates
A foreground to midground plant on hardscape, tucked into the shade of driftwood. Robust enough for cichlids and goldfish, and completely safe with all fish, shrimp, and snails.
Propagation
Cut the rhizome into sections, keeping at least three or four leaves and some roots on each, and attach the new pieces as you did the parent. Cuttings establish best when they are not divided too small.
Approximate Shipping Size
Anubias Nana ships as an established plant of approximately 3–5 inch (8–13 cm) with several mature leaves on a healthy rhizome. All orders are covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.
