How To Attach Anubias Nana To Rock – A Step-By-Step Aquascaper’S Guide

Ever look at a stunning aquascape and wonder how they get those lush green plants to grow directly on rocks and driftwood? It feels like a magic trick, but I promise you, it’s one of the easiest and most rewarding skills you can learn in this hobby. If you’ve ever felt a little intimidated by the idea, you’re in the right place.

You’ve got the beautiful Anubias nana, you’ve picked out the perfect rock, but now you’re stuck. How do you actually connect them without harming the plant or your tank’s inhabitants?

Don’t worry—I’m here to show you exactly how to attach anubias nana to rock safely and securely. This guide will walk you through everything, from the tools you’ll need to two foolproof methods that guarantee success. By the end, you’ll be able to create those gorgeous, natural-looking focal points you’ve been dreaming of.

Why Attach Anubias Nana to Rock? The Surprising Benefits

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s talk about the “why.” Attaching your Anubias to hardscape isn’t just for looks; it’s actually the best way to ensure your plant thrives. This simple technique unlocks a host of advantages for your entire aquarium.

One of the main benefits of how to attach anubias nana to rock is that it mimics their natural growing conditions. In the wild, these plants are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other surfaces like rocks and fallen trees, not in the soil.

It’s All About the Rhizome

The most critical part of an Anubias plant is its rhizome—the thick, horizontal stem where the leaves and roots sprout from. If you bury this rhizome under your substrate, it will quickly rot, and the plant will die. Attaching it to a rock keeps the rhizome exposed to the water column, allowing it to breathe and absorb nutrients freely.

Aesthetic Freedom and Flexibility

Mounting Anubias gives you complete creative control. You can place them anywhere in your tank to create depth and visual interest. Want a pop of green in a shadowy cave or on the peak of a rock mountain? Go for it! This flexibility allows you to design a truly unique and dynamic aquascape.

A Haven for Your Tank Mates

The broad, sturdy leaves of Anubias nana create perfect resting spots and hiding places for fish and shrimp. Shy creatures will feel more secure, and you’ll get to see more of their natural behaviors. It’s a win-win for plants and pets!

Gathering Your Toolkit: Everything You Need Before You Start

A little preparation goes a long way. Having everything ready before you start makes the process smooth and stress-free. Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need.

A Healthy Anubias Nana Plant

Start with a strong foundation. When picking your plant, look for one with vibrant, deep green leaves. Avoid any with yellowing, holes, or melting edges. The rhizome should feel firm and solid, not mushy.

The Perfect Rock

You can use almost any aquarium-safe rock. Popular choices include lava rock, dragon stone, and seiryu stone. Lava rock is fantastic for beginners because its porous surface gives the plant’s roots plenty of texture to grip onto. Whatever you choose, give it a good scrub in old tank water or dechlorinated tap water to remove any debris.

Your Attachment Arsenal: Glue vs. Thread

This is where you have a choice to make, and there’s no wrong answer! Both methods work wonderfully. This is a key part of our how to attach anubias nana to rock guide.

  • Super Glue: The fastest and cleanest method. You must use a super glue gel that is 100% Cyanoacrylate. This is completely inert and aquarium-safe once cured. The gel formula is easier to control than the runny liquid version.
  • Thread or Fishing Line: A more traditional and eco-friendly how to attach anubias nana to rock method. You can use 100% cotton thread (which will dissolve over a few months, just as the roots take hold) or a thin fishing line (which is more permanent but less visible).

The Ultimate How to Attach Anubias Nana to Rock Guide: Two Foolproof Methods

Alright, it’s time for the main event! We’ve got our plant, our rock, and our attachment tool. Let’s get this beautiful Anubias mounted. I’ll walk you through both methods step-by-step.

Method 1: The Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate) Technique

This is my personal favorite for its speed and clean look. It seems scary at first, but trust me, it’s incredibly easy and safe when done correctly.

  1. Prepare Your Surfaces: Take your rock and plant out of the water. Gently pat the specific spot on the rock and the underside of the Anubias rhizome dry with a paper towel. The glue works best on dry surfaces.
  2. Apply the Glue: Squeeze a few small dabs of cyanoacrylate gel onto the dry spot on the rock. You don’t need a lot! A little goes a long way.
  3. Press and Hold: Firmly press the rhizome of the Anubias onto the dabs of glue. Be careful not to get glue on the roots or the base of the leaves—only on the hard, stem-like rhizome.
  4. Hold Securely: Hold the plant in place for about 30-60 seconds. The gel should set quickly. To be extra safe, you can let it sit out of the water for a few minutes to fully cure before placing it back in the tank.

That’s it! You’re done. The bond is instant and will hold strong underwater.

Method 2: The Tying Technique (Thread or Fishing Line)

This is a classic and very sustainable how to attach anubias nana to rock method. It’s perfect if you’re hesitant to use glue or if you might want to move the plant later.

  1. Position the Plant: Place the Anubias on the rock exactly where you want it to grow. Arrange the roots so they can wrap around the rock naturally.
  2. Start Wrapping: Take your cotton thread or fishing line and hold one end against the rock. Begin wrapping the line over the rhizome and around the rock. Loop it around several times to ensure it’s secure.
  3. Avoid the Leaves: Be careful not to tie down the delicate leaf stems (petioles). You only want to secure the rhizome.
  4. Tie a Secure Knot: Once you’ve wrapped it a few times, tie a tight, secure knot on the back or underside of the rock where it won’t be seen. A double knot is a good idea.
  5. Trim the Excess: Snip off any long, trailing ends of the thread or line.

Over the next few months, the Anubias roots will grow and anchor themselves firmly to the rock. If you used cotton thread, it will naturally dissolve and disappear!

Best Practices for Success: Pro Tips for a Thriving Anubias

Knowing how to attach the plant is half the battle. Following these how to attach anubias nana to rock best practices will ensure your plant not only survives but flourishes.

The Golden Rule: Never Bury the Rhizome!

I know I’ve said it before, but it’s the most important rule of Anubias care. The rhizome must always be exposed to open water. Whether you use glue or thread, double-check that only the thin, wiry roots are touching the rock or dangling below, while the thick rhizome is sitting on top.

Placement and Flow

Anubias are low-light plants. Place your newly mounted rock in an area of your tank that receives low to moderate lighting. Too much direct light can cause algae to grow on its slow-growing leaves. They also appreciate gentle water flow, which brings nutrients to them and keeps debris from settling on their leaves.

Patience is a Virtue

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see explosive growth right away. Anubias are slow growers. Their energy will first go into establishing a strong root system on the rock. Once they feel secure, you’ll be rewarded with steady, new leaf growth.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with How to Attach Anubias Nana to Rock

Even with the best preparation, you might run into a snag. Here are solutions to some common problems with how to attach anubias nana to rock that newcomers face.

Help, My Anubias is Floating Away!

If you used glue, it might mean the surfaces weren’t dry enough or you didn’t use enough glue. Simply take it out, dry it off, and re-apply. If you used thread, your knot probably wasn’t tight enough. Re-tie it, making sure it’s snug against the rhizome.

The Leaves are Turning Yellow or Melting.

This is very common and is usually just “melt” from the plant acclimating to your tank’s water parameters. Don’t panic! Trim away any heavily decaying leaves. As long as the rhizome is firm and healthy, it will bounce back and sprout new leaves adapted to its new home.

There’s White Fuzz on My Glue/Thread.

That’s just a harmless biofilm. It’s a natural part of a new aquarium setup and will go away on its own in a week or two. Your shrimp and snails will also consider it a tasty snack!

Your Anubias Nana Care Guide After Attachment

Your Anubias is now happily mounted! This simple how to attach anubias nana to rock care guide will keep it looking its best.

  • Lighting: Low to moderate light is ideal. High light can cause spot algae on the leaves.
  • Fertilization: Since Anubias isn’t planted in the substrate, it gets nutrients from the water. A good quality, comprehensive liquid fertilizer dosed once or twice a week is perfect.
  • Water Parameters: Anubias are incredibly hardy. They tolerate a wide range of temperatures (72-82°F or 22-28°C) and pH levels. The key is stability.
  • Maintenance: Occasionally, you can gently wipe the leaves with your finger to remove any settled debris or algae. Prune any old, yellowing leaves at the rhizome to encourage new growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Attaching Anubias Nana

Can I attach Anubias nana to driftwood instead of rock?

Absolutely! The process is exactly the same for driftwood. Both the glue and thread methods work perfectly. In fact, the combination of dark wood and bright green Anubias is a classic and stunning look.

How long does it take for Anubias roots to attach to the rock?

Patience is key here. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months for the roots to grow and firmly grip the surface. You’ll know they’re attached when you can gently tug the plant and it doesn’t move.

Is super glue really safe for my fish and shrimp?

Yes, as long as you use 100% Cyanoacrylate gel and allow it to fully cure, it is completely inert and safe for all aquarium inhabitants, including delicate shrimp and snails. It does not leach any chemicals into the water.

Your Aquascaping Journey Begins Now

See? That wasn’t so hard! You now have all the knowledge and how to attach anubias nana to rock tips you need to master this fundamental aquascaping skill. You’ve learned why it’s best for the plant, what tools to use, and two different methods to get the job done.

Remember the golden rule—never bury the rhizome—and be patient as your plant settles in. Adding an Anubias on a rock is one of the simplest ways to add a professional and natural touch to your tank.

So go ahead, grab that plant and rock you’ve been eyeing. It’s time to stop dreaming about that beautiful aquascape and start creating it. Happy scaping!

Howard Parker