Exploring the Different Stages of Anubias Plant Growth

Anubias is a popular genus of aquatic plants that is widely used in aquariums and aquascaping With their hardy nature, attractive broad leaves, and slow growth rate, anubias make ideal plants for both beginner and expert aquarists. When caring for these plants, it’s helpful to understand their different stages of growth so you can provide the right care and conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the key phases of the anubias life cycle.

Getting to Know Anubias

Anubias plants are native to tropical regions of Africa. They grow along river banks and in other wet, humid environments There are several different species of anubias, but some of the most popular include Anubias barteri, Anubias nana, and Anubias afzelii.

These plants have thick, green leaves that emerge from a horizontal rhizome. The rhizome anchors the plant while sending out roots into the substrate. Anubias can grow fully submerged or with leaves emerging above the water’s surface. Their broad leaves come in a range of shapes from long and spear-like to heart-shaped. Varieties like Anubias nana stay compact while Anubias barteri can grow over 12 inches tall.

One of the keys to anubias’ popularity is their tough, resilient nature. They grow well in low to moderate light, tolerate a range of water parameters, and rarely suffer from algae or disease issues. Their slow, steady growth rate also makes them perfect for beginners who want undemanding aquarium plants.

Now let’s look at the different phases of the anubias life cycle.

Planting and Establishing Roots

Once you acquire an anubias plant, the first stage is to plant it in the aquarium. Start by choosing a suitable location in your tank, preferably attached to a rock, driftwood, or other hardscape. You can also plant the rhizome in the substrate, taking care not to bury it.

During this initial phase, the anubias will focus on establishing an extensive root system. Make sure to plant it in nutrient-rich substrate. Give the roots time to spread out and secure the plant. This process usually takes 2-4 weeks. Don’t move or disturb the anubias during this rooting period.

Be sure to provide moderate lighting of 2-4 watts per gallon. Low to medium fertilization can help the rooting process but isn’t mandatory. Maintain stable water parameters around 75-82°F temperature, 6.5-7.5 pH, and 5-15 dGH hardness.

Leaf Growth and Maturation

Once the anubias has developed anchoring roots, it will shift energy to growing new leaves. This leaf production phase can last for many months or even years as the plant matures.

Make sure lighting is in the moderate range for this stage. Increase fertilization to provide nutrients that aid leaf growth. Use an aquatic plant fertilizer that contains macro and micronutrients. Add CO2 if you want faster growth. Perform regular water changes to remove waste and replenish minerals.

You’ll notice new leaves emerging from the center of the plant. Remove any old or damaged foliage to encourage new growth. Trim any blackened, thinning rhizome sections. As it matures, the anubias will reach its maximum size with lush foliage.

Flowering and Reproduction

Mature, healthy anubias plants may eventually produce flowers when conditions are ideal. The small white or green flowers emerge on a long stalk above the water’s surface. Unfortunately, anubias rarely bloom when grown fully submerged in aquariums.

If your plant does flower successfully, this allows cross-pollination and seed production. Or the anubias may produce new plantlets on lateral shoots and runners. These daughter plants can then detach and be used for propagation.

Dividing the rhizome is another way to propagate mature anubias. Use a clean, sharp knife to cut the rhizome into sections, making sure each segment has several leaves. Then replant the divisions to grow new plants.

Caring for Anubias Through the Stages

Caring for your anubias properly during each growth phase is crucial. Here is a quick recap of the care guidelines:

• Planting: Secure to hardscape or plant rhizome in substrate, provide moderate light, maintain optimal water parameters.

• Rooting: Allow 2-4 weeks to establish extensive roots, avoid moving/disturbing plant, low to medium fertilization.

• Leaf Growth: Increase lighting and fertilization moderately, supply CO2 for faster growth, remove old leaves.

• Maturation: Allow plant to reach maximum size and foliage density, trim any dead sections on rhizome.

• Flowering: Ideal conditions may trigger blooms and seed production.

• Propagation: Division of rhizome and plantlets allow natural propagation.

Understanding these different life stages of anubias will help you become a more successful aquarium gardener. Follow the care guidelines tailored to each phase of growth. With a little time and patience, you’ll be rewarded with vibrant, lush anubias plants.