Let me guess: Anubias was one of the first plants you added to your very first aquarium?
You’re not the only one! Anubias is a favored choice among aquarium enthusiasts and aquascapers. Known for their unique leaf structures and slow growth rate, Anubias plants add a touch of elegance to any underwater setup. Moreover, there are so many varieties of Anubias on the market that there is something for everyone and for every aquascape. In this blog post, I will delve into the care of different Anubias species including large variants like Anubias gigantea and small ones such as Anubias afzelii. We’ll explore the optimal growing conditions these plants require for healthy development – from water quality to light tolerance levels and discuss the correct propagation techniques for achieving best results with your Anubias plants,
Adding beautiful greenery to your home or garden can really help bring things to life. If you’re looking for an easy-care plant that can thrive both indoors and out, the anubias plant is a great option to consider. With its lush, deep green leaves and tropical vibes, this African native makes a striking addition to aquariums, ponds, and garden beds.
However, with nearly 20 different anubias species and countless cultivars to pick from, it can be tricky choosing the right size plant for your space To help you select the perfect fit, here’s an in-depth look at anubias plant sizes and how to match them to your landscape needs.
An Overview of Anubias Plant Sizes
Anubias plants can range dramatically in size depending on the species and growing conditions Here’s a quick rundown of their size categories
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Small: 2-6 inches tall. Great for nano tanks and foreground planting. Examples: A. nana, A. barteri ‘Petite’.
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Medium: 6-12 inches tall. Nice for mid-ground accent plants. Examples: A. barteri, A. congensis.
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Large: 12-24+ inches tall. Perfect focal points and background plants. Examples: A. gigantea, A. hastifolia.
The smallest variety, A. nana ‘Petite’, maxes out around just 3 inches tall. Meanwhile, large species like A. gigantea can reach heights of 2 feet or more!
So as you can see, there’s quite a spectrum to choose from. Keep reading for tips on picking the right size for your specific needs.
Choosing Anubias for Small-Scale Planting
If you’re working with a compact tank or garden area, a petite anubias variety is the way to go. The dainty leaves and compact growth habit of small anubias plants let you add lively greenery without overpowering the space.
For aquariums under 10 gallons, nano species like A. nana and A. barteri ‘Petite’ are perfect. Their petite foliage and diminutive heights of 3-6 inches are ideal for nano tanks. Use them to create a lush foreground or as accent plants throughout the tank.
Outdoors, small anubias varieties work nicely in small water features like tabletop fountains and mini ponds. Or plant them as groundcover in shaded garden beds and patio planters. Just be sure not to overwhelm the plantings with too many larger plants.
Picking Mid-Size Anubias for Flexibility
The medium-sized anubias varieties offer the best of both worlds. With heights of 6-12 inches, these adaptable plants are suitable for an array of spaces. Their leaf size and growth habit also lend them to diverse aquascaping uses.
Versatile species like A. barteri and A. congensis work great as mid-ground accents in medium to large aquariums. Position a few between taller background plants and shorter foreground greenery to add depth and interest. Their medium size also makes them appropriate for tabletop aquariums and medium ponds outdoors.
For gardens, mid-size anubias plants add lush, tropical appeal to shady beds and planters. Plant them as accents among ferns, ivy, and other shade lovers. Just be sure to give them sufficient moisture.
Using Large Varieties as Striking Focal Points
If you have ample space and want maximum visual impact, choose a large anubias variety as a focal point. Their substantial size, often 12-24 inches tall, makes them perfect background plants for large aquariums and ponds.
Big species like A. hastifolia and A. gigantea truly live up to the name “gigantea” with their huge leaves and commanding presence. Use one or two as a prominent centerpiece in a big tank or water feature. Surround them with smaller plants to prevent them from dominating.
For shade gardens, a large anubias makes an exotic, tropical statement. Allow plenty of room for its expansive leaves and mature size. Plant it beside a deck, patio, or seating area where its large leaves and strapping texture can be best appreciated.
Key Factors in Choosing the Right Size
When deciding which anubias size is right for your space, keep these key considerations in mind:
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The scale of your planting area – Make sure to pick a size that fits the footprint you have to work with.
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Your design goals – Do you want a focal point, accent plants, or background greenery? Match the anubias size to your needs.
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Proximity to viewing areas – Consider how close people will be to the plantings and choose an appropriate size.
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Growth rate and maintenance – Larger varieties require more pruning and care over time.
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Lighting and conditions – Ensure the space offers suitable lighting, moisture, and humidity for healthy growth.
Caring for Your Anubias Plants
Once you’ve selected the ideal anubias for your landscape, providing proper care will ensure they flourish for years to come. Here are some key tips:
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Give them bright, indirect light or partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight.
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Keep their roots and leaves moist. Never allow them to dry out.
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For aquarium plants, attach to driftwood or rocks. Don’t bury the rhizomes.
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Use aquatic plant fertilizer to nourish aquarium specimens monthly.
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Outdoor plants appreciate rich, moist soil amended with compost.
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Remove old leaves and trim back overgrown plants to improve appearance.
Add Lush, Tropical Appeal with the Perfect Anubias
Anubias plants lend exotic good looks and graceful style to gardens and aquariums alike. By selecting the ideal size for your space, you can beautify your landscape with these easy-care wonders. A petite variety brings delicate texture to a small-scale planting, while a large statement piece creates dramatic impact.
With their adaptability, hardiness, and striking tropical flair, anubias plants are sure to transform your outdoor living space or indoor aquascape into a lush, peaceful oasis.
Understanding the Anubias aquarium plant species
Originating from West Africa, Anubias is known for their lush green leaves and hardy nature. This aquarium plant species come from regions with varying climates, ranging from rainforests to savannas. This diversity contributes to their adaptability in different aquarium conditions. There are many variants of Anubias, from very large to medium-sized and nano variants. Here’s a quick overview:
Large variants of Anubias
- Anbuias gigantea
- Anubias barteri
These bigger variants make excellent centerpieces due to their size and striking appearance. They’re perfect for creating depth and contrast in your aquascape.
Medium-Sized Variants of Anubias
- Anubias barteri
- Anubias petite
- Anubias frazeri
- Anubias coffeefolia
- Anubias congensis
- Anubias longifolia
- Anubias hastifolia
These medium-sized variants of Anubias are popular among aquarists due to its versatility and ease-of-care. The offer a delicate beauty with their compact form and unique leaf shapes
Small to nano variants of Anubias
Moving towards the smaller end, we have
- Anubias nana ‘Pangolino”
- Anubias nana “Chilli”
- Anubias bonsai
These tiny gems can add intricate detail to any aquatic layout. There’s also an array of variegated versions available on the market which bring a pop of color into your underwater garden.
How to plant Anubias: on rocks, driftwood and soil
First of all: Anubias is an epiphyte by nature and should NEVER be buried in substrate unlike other aquarium plants! The rhizome is where all its roots sprout from; burying it could cause rotting leading to eventual plant death. Instead, they should be stuck into hardscape crevices or attached onto rocks or wood using string or super glue.
Zip Tie Method
The zip tie method is a popular and straightforward technique for attaching Anubias to driftwood or rocks in your aquarium. Simply wrap the zip tie around the rhizome of the plant and secure it tightly enough that it won’t slip off but loose enough so as not to damage the plant itself. It’s like giving your plant a little hug. Instead of a zip tie, you could also use some (nylon) string.
Superglue Technique
For a more lasting fix, you may want to try using superglue. Yes, you read that right. Certain types of superglue are safe for use in aquariums and can securely attach your Anubias plants to various surfaces without causing harm. Be sure to choose a glue that’s cyanoacrylate-based; these glues become inert when wet, making them harmless for fish and other aquatic life forms. It’s like giving your plant a makeover with a little bit of glue
Anubias Plant Care for Beginners
Is Anubias a good aquarium plant?
Anubias is a highly sought-after aquatic plant among aquarium hobbyists due to its ease of care, beautiful & varied appearance (from Big to Mini to Snow) and versatility in size. There are two common species of Anubias, namely Anubias barteri and Anubias heterophylla. Anubias is a genus of aquatic plants that belongs to the Araceae family.
How do I choose a healthy Anubias plant?
The leaves should be free from any yellowing or brown spots, which could indicate health issues. A healthy Anubias plant will have lush green leaves that have a slightly glossy look to them. Another important factor to consider when buying an Anubias plant is the roots. Healthy Anubias plants should have strong and firm roots.
How many species of Anubias are there?
There are two common species of Anubias, namely Anubias barteri and Anubias heterophylla. Anubias is a genus of aquatic plants that belongs to the Araceae family. They are native to Africa and can be found growing in rivers, streams, and marshes. Related Articles: 16 Awesome Low Light Aquarium Plants (Mosses, Ferns & Stem Plants)
Can Anubias grow in low light?
16 Awesome Low Light Aquarium Plants (Mosses, Ferns & Stem Plants) Anubias care is relatively easy compared to other aquatic plants. It can thrive in low light conditions and does not require CO2 injection, substrate or soil to thrive. In this Anubias Care Guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about adding Anubias to your aquarium setup.