Anubias Aquatic Plant – The Ultimate Guide To Growing This Hardy

If you have ever walked into a local fish store and admired those lush, dark green leaves swaying gently in the current, you have likely laid eyes on an anubias aquatic plant.

For many of us in the hobby, these plants were our first foray into the world of aquascaping.

They are incredibly forgiving, strikingly beautiful, and possess an almost indestructible nature that makes them perfect for both low-tech community tanks and high-end planted aquariums.

Whether you are struggling to keep your first java fern alive or you are an experienced aquarist looking to create a low-maintenance “jungle” scape, this guide will provide everything you need to succeed.

Why the Anubias Aquatic Plant is a Hobbyist Favorite

There is a reason you see this genus in nearly every professional display tank.

Unlike many stem plants that require constant pruning, precise CO2 injection, and high-intensity lighting, this plant is famously “set it and forget it.”

It is a slow-growing epiphyte, meaning it doesn’t need to be buried in the substrate to thrive.

In fact, if you bury the rhizome—the thick, horizontal stem—it will likely rot and perish.

This makes it an ideal choice for attaching to hardscape materials like driftwood, lava rock, or even decorative resin ornaments.

Understanding the Anatomy: The Rhizome is King

To master the anubias aquatic plant, you must understand the rhizome.

Think of the rhizome as the “battery” and “brain” of the plant. It stores nutrients and acts as the anchor point for all roots and leaves.

If you purchase a specimen and find it tied to a weight, remove the weight immediately.

If the rhizome is buried under heavy gravel or nutrient-rich soil, the lack of water flow will cause the tissue to soften and decay.

Instead, use fishing line, cotton thread, or specialized plant glue (cyanoacrylate gel) to secure the rhizome to a surface.

Within a few weeks, you will see thin, white roots reaching out to grab onto the decor, effectively “locking” the plant in place.

Choosing the Right Species for Your Tank

Not all specimens are created equal. Depending on your tank size, you might want to choose a specific variety.

The Petite Powerhouse

Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Petite’ is arguably the most popular variety.

With its tiny, compact leaves, it is perfect for nano tanks or for tucking into small crevices in a larger aquascape.

The Regal Presence

If you have a larger tank, look for Anubias barteri var. barteri or var. coffeefolia.

These varieties grow much larger leaves, with the latter featuring beautiful, corrugated ridges that add incredible texture to a layout.

Lighting and Fertilization Requirements

One of the greatest myths in the hobby is that “low light” means “no light.”

While an anubias aquatic plant can survive in dim conditions, it will thrive and produce new leaves much faster with moderate lighting.

Managing Algae Growth

Because these plants grow slowly, their leaves are often magnets for algae—specifically “spot algae” or “beard algae.”

This is usually a sign that your light is on for too long or your tank is too close to a window.

If you notice green dots appearing on the leaves, try shortening your photoperiod to 6–7 hours.

If algae persist, consider introducing a small crew of nerite snails or Amano shrimp; they are natural gardeners that love to graze on these leaves without damaging them.

To Fertilize or Not to Fertilize?

Since these plants pull nutrients directly from the water column, they benefit from a liquid fertilizer.

However, they don’t need much. A simple, well-rounded liquid supplement once a week is usually plenty.

If you are running a high-tech tank with CO2, you will notice a significant increase in growth rate, but keep in mind that faster growth also requires more consistent nutrient dosing to prevent deficiencies.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Even the toughest plants can run into issues. Here is how to handle the most common headaches.

Melting Leaves

If your plant arrives with yellow or melting leaves, don’t panic.

It is likely transitioning from an “emersed” state (grown above water in a nursery) to an “submersed” state (underwater).

Simply trim off the dying leaves with sharp aquarium scissors. As long as the rhizome remains firm and green, the plant will push out new, aquatic-adapted growth.

Rhizome Rot

If you notice the rhizome turning mushy or smelling foul, remove the plant immediately.

Cut away the rotting portion with a sterile blade, leaving only the healthy, firm green sections.

Sometimes, this is caused by poor water circulation, so ensure your filter output is creating gentle movement around your plants.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep an anubias aquatic plant with goldfish?

Yes! They are one of the few plants that goldfish generally leave alone. Their leaves are tough and leathery, which makes them unpalatable to most herbivorous fish.

Does the anubias aquatic plant need CO2?

No, it does not. It is an excellent low-tech plant. While CO2 will speed up growth, it is not required for the plant to remain healthy and vibrant.

Can I plant it in sand?

You can, as long as you only bury the roots and keep the rhizome completely exposed above the sand. If the rhizome is covered, it will likely rot.

Why are my leaves turning yellow?

This is often a sign of a nutrient deficiency (like potassium or iron) or an issue with lighting. Check your water parameters and ensure you are using a quality liquid fertilizer.

Is it safe for shrimp tanks?

Absolutely. Shrimp love to graze on the broad leaves of these plants, searching for biofilm and micro-organisms. It is a staple in almost every shrimp breeding setup.

Final Thoughts for the Aspiring Aquarist

The anubias aquatic plant is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in our hobby.

By avoiding the temptation to bury the rhizome and ensuring your lighting isn’t causing excessive algae, you can enjoy these stunning, deep-green plants for years—even decades.

Take your time with your aquascape, experiment with placement, and remember that the best aquarium is one where you enjoy the process of watching your underwater garden evolve.

Do you have a favorite variety of this plant in your tank? Let us know in the comments below, and happy fish keeping!