Anubias Afzelii Aquarium – Guide: Grow This Elegant, Bulletproof Plant

Many aquarists struggle to find that perfect “set it and forget it” plant that actually looks sophisticated.

If you are tired of delicate stems melting away or high-maintenance greens demanding all your free time, you are in the right place.

In this guide, we will explore why an anubias afzelii aquarium setup is one of the most rewarding projects you can undertake for a lush, low-stress underwater garden.

What is Anubias Afzelii?

Anubias afzelii is a stunning, narrow-leafed variety of the popular Anubias genus, native to the tropical waters of West Africa.

Unlike the more common Anubias barteri var. nana, this species boasts elongated, lanceolate leaves that can reach impressive heights.

It provides a wonderful structural element to the mid-ground or background of your tank, offering a deep, waxy green color that contrasts beautifully with lighter mosses.

Because it grows slowly and is incredibly hardy, it has become a staple for hobbyists who want a high-end look without the high-end hassle.

The Ideal Parameters for an Anubias Afzelii Aquarium

Setting up a successful anubias afzelii aquarium starts with understanding the basic environmental needs of this robust epiphyte.

While this plant is famous for surviving in “less than ideal” conditions, it truly thrives when you provide a stable environment.

Temperature and Water Chemistry

This plant is remarkably adaptable, but it prefers tropical temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C).

In terms of pH, aim for a range between 6.0 and 7.5, which covers most standard tap water profiles.

It is not particularly picky about water hardness, but moderate levels of GH and KH will help prevent leaf deformities over the long term.

Lighting Requirements

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is providing too much light.

Anubias afzelii is naturally found in shaded forest streams, meaning it is a low-to-moderate light plant.

If your light is too intense, you will likely encounter issues with Green Spot Algae (GSA) forming on the slow-growing leaves.

If you are using high-output LEDs, consider placing this plant under the shade of a larger sword plant or a piece of overhanging driftwood.

Mastering the Art of Planting: The Rhizome Rule

The most critical piece of advice for any anubias afzelii aquarium enthusiast is how to “plant” it.

Unlike most terrestrial plants or aquatic stems, Anubias possesses a thick, horizontal stem called a rhizome.

This rhizome is the powerhouse of the plant, and it must never be buried beneath the substrate.

Why Burying Kills

If you bury the rhizome in sand or gravel, it will eventually suffocate and rot, leading to the slow death of the entire plant.

The roots, which grow out from the bottom of the rhizome, can be tucked into the substrate, but the “log-like” stem must remain exposed to the water column.

This allows the plant to absorb nutrients directly from the water and prevents anaerobic bacteria from attacking the tissue.

Securing the Plant

Since you can’t bury it, how do you keep it from floating away?

The best method is to attach it to hardscape items like driftwood, spider wood, or porous rocks (like lava rock).

You can use a small amount of cyanoacrylate-based super glue gel to stick the rhizome directly to the surface.

Alternatively, you can use dark cotton thread or fishing line to tie it down until the roots naturally grip the texture of the wood or stone.

Nutrient Needs and Fertilization Strategy

Because Anubias afzelii grows at a glacial pace, it does not require a heavy feeding schedule.

However, “low maintenance” does not mean “no maintenance,” and providing the right nutrients will result in much larger, healthier leaves.

Water Column Feeding

Since the rhizome is exposed, this plant takes the majority of its nutrients from the water.

A high-quality all-in-one liquid fertilizer is usually sufficient for an anubias afzelii aquarium.

Look for a supplement that contains both macro-nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) and micro-nutrients (Iron, Magnesium, Boron).

A weekly dose after your water change is typically all it takes to keep the foliage looking vibrant and deep green.

Is CO2 Necessary?

In short: No. Anubias afzelii does not require pressurized CO2 to survive or look good.

However, if you do choose to run CO2, you will notice slightly faster growth and perhaps more robust leaf structure.

Just be careful—if you increase CO2 and light, you must also increase your fertilizer levels to prevent deficiencies.

Designing Your Aquascape with Anubias Afzelii

The elongated shape of Anubias afzelii makes it a unique tool for the aquascaper’s kit.

While smaller varieties are usually tucked into crevices, this species can stand tall as a focal point.

Mid-Ground Placement

In medium-to-large tanks, this plant serves as an excellent transition between low-growing carpets and tall background stems.

Its vertical orientation helps draw the eye upward, creating a sense of depth and scale.

Try grouping three or four specimens together on a piece of driftwood to create a “bushy” effect that mimics a natural riverbank.

Background Potential

In nano tanks (under 10 gallons), Anubias afzelii can actually serve as a background plant.

Because it can reach heights of 10 to 12 inches, it provides a lush green curtain at the back of the tank without the need for constant pruning.

This is perfect for shrimp keepers who want a stable environment where they don’t have to disturb the water frequently.

Common Challenges and How to Solve Them

Even the hardiest plants face issues, and your anubias afzelii aquarium is no exception.

Understanding the “symptoms” of your plant can help you intervene before a problem becomes fatal.

Green Spot Algae (GSA)

This is the most common complaint with Anubias.

Because the leaves are thick and grow slowly, they are the perfect stationary platform for algae to take hold.

If you see hard, circular green spots, try reducing your lighting duration or intensity.

Increasing your phosphate levels slightly can also help inhibit the growth of GSA in many cases.

Yellowing Leaves (Chlorosis)

If the older leaves are turning yellow while the veins stay green, you might be looking at a potassium or iron deficiency.

Ensure you are using a comprehensive fertilizer and not just relying on fish waste.

Anubias are surprisingly hungry for potassium, which helps them regulate water pressure within their cells.

Rhizome Rot

If the rhizome becomes soft, mushy, or starts to smell, it is rotting.

This usually happens because it was buried or because of a lack of water flow around the plant.

To save the plant, use a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors to cut away the rotted sections until you reach firm, healthy green tissue.

Re-attach the healthy portion to a high-flow area of the tank to encourage recovery.

The Best Tank Mates for Anubias Afzelii

One of the reasons this plant is so beloved is its “tough-as-nails” leaf structure.

The leaves are thick and leathery, making them unappealing to most herbivorous fish.

Cichlids and Goldfish

If you have ever tried to keep plants with Oscars, African Cichlids, or Goldfish, you know the struggle.

Most plants are either eaten or uprooted within minutes.

However, Anubias afzelii is often ignored by these “underwater bulldozers.”

Since it is attached to rocks or wood, it cannot be uprooted, and the leaves are generally too tough for fish to chew through.

Shrimp and Snails

Shrimp keepers love anubias afzelii aquarium setups because the broad leaves provide a massive surface area for biofilm to grow.

Cherry shrimp and Amano shrimp will spend hours grazing on the leaves, keeping them clean of microscopic algae.

Nerite snails are also excellent companions, as they will buff the leaves to a shine without damaging the plant tissue.

Propagation: Growing Your Collection for Free

One of the most rewarding aspects of keeping this plant is that it eventually pays for itself.

As the rhizome grows longer, it will occasionally sprout new branches or simply become too long for its current location.

How to Divide the Rhizome

To propagate, simply identify a section of the rhizome that has at least three to four healthy leaves and a few roots.

Using a sharp blade, make a clean cut through the rhizome.

You now have two separate plants!

The “mother” plant will eventually sprout a new growing tip from the site of the cut, and the new “daughter” plant can be moved to a different spot or a new tank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grow Anubias afzelii emersed (out of water)?

Yes! In fact, many nurseries grow them emersed in high-humidity greenhouses. They are excellent for paludariums or terrariums, provided the roots and rhizome remain wet and the humidity stays above 70%.

Why is my Anubias afzelii growing so slowly?

That is perfectly normal. Anubias are some of the slowest-growing plants in the hobby. Expect only one new leaf every few weeks (or even once a month). Patience is key—the slow growth is exactly what makes them so easy to manage!

Is Anubias afzelii toxic to pets?

Anubias contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be irritating if chewed. While most fish won’t eat them, keep them away from curious cats or dogs if you are growing them in an open-top emersed setup.

How do I clean the leaves?

If your leaves get dusty or covered in a bit of film, you can gently rub them with your fingers during a water change. For stubborn algae, a brief dip in a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 19 parts water) for 60 seconds can work, but be very careful and rinse thoroughly with dechlorinated water afterward.

Can it survive in a low-tech tank with no filter?

While it is hardy, it still needs water movement to bring nutrients to the leaves and prevent detritus from settling. A small sponge filter or even a simple air stone is highly recommended for a healthy environment.

Conclusion: Why You Need This Plant Today

Building an anubias afzelii aquarium is a journey into the “slow-life” side of the hobby.

It teaches us that beauty doesn’t have to be demanding and that the most resilient organisms are often the most elegant.

Whether you are looking to hide a filter intake, provide a resting spot for a Betta fish, or create a rugged landscape for cichlids, this plant is up to the task.

Don’t worry—even if you’ve struggled with “brown thumbs” in the past, the Anubias afzelii is forgiving enough to help you succeed.

Grab a piece of driftwood, some super glue, and a healthy specimen from your local fish store, and start your low-maintenance aquascaping adventure today!