If you’re looking for a hardy, beginner-friendly plant that thrives in nearly any freshwater setup, Anubias should be at the top of your list. With its rich green leaves, slow growth, and resilience, this West African aquatic plant is favored by aquascapers, shrimp keepers, and fish enthusiasts alike.

Understanding Anubias aquarium plant: Information & Variants

Anubias is a genus of aquatic and semi-aquatic plants native to Africa, particularly found in shaded streams and riverbanks. It’s part of the Araceae family, just like Peace Lilies and Cryptocoryne. The most common types in the aquarium hobby include:

Small Anubias (Nano & Foreground Plants)

• Anubias nana ‘Petite’
• Anubias nana ‘Mini’
• Anubias nana ‘Golden’
• Anubias nana ‘Pangolino’

Medium Anubias (Midground / Versatile Use)

• Anubias barteri var. Nana
• Anubias coffeefolia
• Anubias gracilis

Large Anubias (Background / Tall Aquariums)

• Anubias barteri
• Anubias hastifolia
• Anubias afzelii

How to grow and care for Anubias

Water Parameters

Anubias is very hardy and adaptable to a wide range of freshwater conditions:

• Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.8
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3 – 10 dGH)
• CO₂ Requirement: Not required, but tolerates CO2 – injected tanks well
• Water Flow: Low to moderate (too much flow can uproot or dry out leaves)

Lighting 

Anubias is a low-light plant, ideal for low-tech or shaded aquariums:

• Light Intensity: Low to medium (15 – 40 PAR)
• Photoperiod: 6 – 8 hours per day
• Avoid: Strong, direct light – this can cause algae growth on leaves due to Anubias’ slow growth rate
• Placement Tip: Ideal under floating plants or shaded areas of the tank

Substrate

Anubias does not require substrate and should never be buried:

• Rhizome: Must be placed above substrate—can rot if buried
• Best Placement: Attach to hardscape like driftwood, lava rock, or ornaments using glue, thread, or fishing line
• Floating Option: Can be floated temporarily or grown emersed in humid environments

Fertilizer

Though low-maintenance, Anubias benefits from light fertilization:

• Type: Liquid fertilizers are most effective (targeting water column, not roots)
• Frequency: Weekly or as part of your tank’s fert schedule
• Important Nutrients: Iron and potassium help maintain dark green, healthy leaves
• Root Tabs: Not necessary unless rhizome is partially buried or in very nutrient-depleted tanks

How to Propagate Anubias

Propagating Anubias is simple and beginner-friendly, making it a great plant for hobbyists who want to expand their aquascape naturally. Like ferns, Anubias grows from a rhizome, which is the thick, horizontal stem that lies above the substrate or attaches to hardscape:

• Wait for Maturity: Ensure your Anubias plant is healthy and has a well-developed rhizome with several leaves (at least 5–6).
• Use Sharp, Sterile Tools: Use clean scissors or aquascaping shears to cut the rhizome into two or more sections. Each piece should have at least 2–3 leaves and visible roots.
• Attach or Replant: Reattach the new rhizome sections to rocks, driftwood, or decorations – just like you would with the original plant. Use glue or thread, but never bury the rhizome.
  
• Provide Stable Conditions: Place the new plants in low to moderate light with stable water parameters. In a few weeks, you’ll see new roots and leaf shoots from the cut ends.

Conclusion

Anubias is one of the most beginner-friendly and versatile aquarium plants available. It adapts to a wide range of conditions, requires minimal maintenance, and adds a touch of deep green elegance to any aquascape..

Explore our Live Anubias Collection and bring this hardy plant to your aquarium today, and if you have any questions, let us know in the comments below!