Anubias barteri “Nana”

Scientific name: Anubias barteri “Nana”

Family: Araceae

Usual maximum size in aquariums: 5 - 15 cm (1.97 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.5 - 8.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 20 - 30 °C (68 - 86°F)

Reproduction of the plant: Rhizome

Origin (in the wild): Africa

How fast these plants grow: Slow

Recommended substrate: Gravel

Demands on lighting: Subdued

Ideal placement in a fish tank: Foreground

Common Names

Anubias Nana

Origin

Anubias barteri “Nana” originates from West Africa, thriving in the warm, tropical regions along riverbanks, streams, and wetlands. In its natural habitat, it grows in shaded areas within slow-moving or stagnant waters. These conditions make it particularly well-suited for aquariums, as it adapts easily to a variety of water parameters.

Growing Conditions

Anubias barteri “Nana” is a versatile and hardy plant that can be grown fully submerged in aquariums or emersed in high-humidity setups such as ponds and paludariums. This adaptability enhances its popularity across different aquascaping styles. While it prefers subdued lighting, it can tolerate a range of light conditions from low to moderate. This makes it an excellent choice for low-tech setups and aquariums where taller plants may cast shade.

The plant grows slowly, typically reaching a maximum size of 5 - 15 cm (1.97 - 5.91 inches). Because of its compact nature, Anubias Nana is ideal for the foreground or midground of the tank, creating an appealing visual effect when combined with larger plants or hardscape elements like rocks and driftwood. It’s crucial to avoid burying the rhizome in the substrate, as this can lead to rot. Instead, anchor the plant on hard surfaces to encourage healthy growth.

Planting Area

The best placement for Anubias barteri “Nana” is in the foreground or midground of the aquarium. Its compact, dense leaves provide a lush, natural look that pairs well with taller plants like Vallisneria or Echinodorus, adding depth and contrast to the aquascape. It also works well in nano tanks due to its smaller size and slow growth.

Propagation

Propagation of Anubias barteri “Nana” is simple and involves dividing the rhizome. To propagate, cut a portion of the rhizome, ensuring each section has at least a few leaves attached. These sections can be securely attached to rocks, wood, or placed on the substrate, where they will gradually anchor themselves and produce new growth. Regular monitoring of rhizome health helps prevent any decay or detachment.

Difficulty

Anubias barteri “Nana” is known for being one of the easiest plants to care for, making it perfect for both novice and experienced aquarists. Thanks to its slow growth rate, this plant requires minimal trimming and upkeep. While it can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, occasional fertilization can enhance leaf color and growth. Its tough, leathery leaves also deter most herbivorous fish, ensuring the plant remains intact and attractive in the tank.

Short Description

Anubias barteri “Nana” is highly regarded in the aquarium community for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Its thick, dark green leaves are long-lasting and can withstand varying water conditions. While its growth rate is slow, this feature reduces maintenance, making it ideal for low-maintenance tanks. Older leaves may develop some algae over time, which can add a natural touch or be controlled by algae-eating fish or shrimp. Under optimal conditions, Anubias Nana may even produce small, underwater flowers, adding a unique element to your aquascape.

With its ability to thrive in both submerged and emersed conditions, Anubias barteri “Nana” is a favorite for aquascapers looking for versatility and resilience. To ensure the plant stays healthy, secure the rhizome to a sturdy surface like gravel, rock, or driftwood to prevent it from being dislodged by water movement. With proper care, this plant can be a long-lasting, beautiful addition to any aquarium or paludarium.