Anubias barteri

Anubias barteri
Common Name: Broadleaf Anubias

Anubias barteri is a bold, robust species native to West Africa, known for its large, glossy green leaves and extremely hardy nature. This rhizomatous plant is widely used in freshwater aquariums and is equally impressive in terrarium and paludarium environments when grown emersed. Its broad leaves—ranging from 5 to 15 cm—create a strong architectural presence and offer excellent cover in bioactive enclosures.

Anubias barteri is best attached to hardscape such as driftwood, stone, or cork bark. It should never be buried, as the rhizome must remain above the substrate. Its adaptability to low light, resistance to rot, and low nutrient demand make it an ideal plant for beginners and professionals alike. In aquariums, it adds lush depth to the mid- or background. In terrariums, its strength, size, and longevity make it a centrepiece plant for larger displays or back walls.

1. Special Features:

   • Large, leathery leaves with high durability

   • Tolerates a wide range of conditions

   • Slow but steady grower

2. Companion Compatibility:

   • Excellent with mosses, ferns, orchids, and Bucephalandra

   • Safe for reptiles, amphibians, shrimp, and fish

3. Lifecycle:

   • Perennial

4. Dormancy Needs:

   • None

5. CO2 Demand:

   • Low (optional in aquarium setups)

6. Animal Compatibility:

   • Fully terrarium-safe and aquarium-safe

• Do not bury the rhizome; instead, attach to wood, stone, or background using glue, thread, or wire.

• For terrariums, position in areas with airflow and humidity but avoid water pooling around the base.

• For aquariums, place in shaded or low-light areas to prevent algae buildup.

• Watering (Terrarium): Mist or ensure ambient humidity; keep roots moist but not soaked.

• Light: Low to medium light encourages slow, steady growth without algae issues.

• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity needed for healthy emersed growth.

• Feeding: Minimal needs; occasional aquarium fertiliser or root tab near base is sufficient.

• Pruning: Trim damaged leaves and divide rhizomes to propagate.