Anubias Nana

The Anubias nana (scientifically known as Anubias barteri var. nana) is a popular and very hardy aquatic plant, especially favored by beginner and experienced aquarists for freshwater tanks.

Here is a detailed description:

General Appearance and Characteristics

• Type: A dwarf variety of Anubias barteri and a rhizomatous plant. It’s often used as a foreground or midground plant in aquariums due to its small size.
• Size: Typically reaches a height of about 3–5 inches (8–13 cm) with a creeping rhizome that can spread horizontally.
• Leaves: The leaves are a key feature—they are typically dark green, thick, leathery, and heart-shaped or oblong. This tough texture makes them unappetizing to most herbivorous fish.
• Rhizome: This is a thick, horizontal stem from which the leaves and roots grow. It is crucial that the rhizome is not buried in the substrate, as this will cause it to rot and the plant to die. It should be attached to hardscape like rocks or driftwood.
• Growth Rate: Very slow growing. Leaves can survive for a long time, sometimes making them susceptible to spot algae growth if lighting is too intense.
• Flowering: It is one of the few aquatic plants that can flower while fully submerged underwater, producing a creamy white spathe (flower).

Care and Maintenance

• Difficulty: Very Easy (Beginner-friendly).
• Lighting: Prefers low to medium light. Too much intense light can encourage algae growth on its slow-growing leaves.
• CO₂: Not required, but CO₂ supplementation will encourage slightly faster and more robust growth.
• Planting: Do not bury the rhizome in the substrate. Instead, attach the plant to driftwood, rocks, or other decor using aquarium-safe super glue (cyanoacrylate) or fishing line until its roots naturally anchor themselves.
• Propagation: Achieved through rhizome division. Cut the rhizome into pieces, ensuring each section has at least a few leaves, and attach the new pieces to hardscape.