Anubias barteri nana

Anubias barteri var. nana
Common Name: Dwarf Anubias

Anubias barteri var. nana is a compact and incredibly resilient plant prized in both aquascaping and terrarium design. Native to West Africa, this dwarf variety of Anubias barteri features thick, dark green, leathery leaves that form tight clusters on short creeping rhizomes. While it is one of the most popular species in freshwater aquariums due to its hardiness and low-light tolerance, it is equally suitable—and highly attractive—in high-humidity terrariums, paludariums, and ripariums when grown emersed.

Unlike many other tropical species, Anubias nana does not require nutrient-rich soil and should never be buried deep in substrate; instead, it is best attached to hardscape elements like rocks or driftwood, where it gradually spreads. Its slow growth and tolerance for varying light and moisture conditions make it ideal for long-term, low-maintenance displays. In aquariums, it is often used in the foreground or on hardscape in shaded areas, while in terrariums, it adds elegant, architectural greenery to the mid- or background.

1. Special Features:

   • Thick, glossy leaves that resist rot and drying

   • Grows on hardscape—ideal for scaping on rock, wood, or cork

   • Tolerates wide range of conditions in both aquariums and terrariums

2. Companion Compatibility:

   • Pairs well with mosses, ferns, Bucephalandra, and orchids

   • Perfect for dart frog or small reptile enclosures (non-toxic)

3. Lifecycle:

   • Perennial

4. Dormancy Needs:

   • None

5. CO2 Demand:

   • Not required, but will grow slightly faster with CO₂ in aquariums

6. Animal Compatibility:

   • Fully safe for use with amphibians, reptiles, fish, and inverts

• 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.