Dwarf Anubias (Anubias barteri var. nana)

Dwarf Anubias

Anubias barteri var. nana

It thrives submerged or emersed, a quiet aquatic beauty. Slow-growing aquatic rhizomatous plant; common name: Dwarf Anubias.

Partial sun
N/A/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Low to moderate indirect or LED aquarium light; avoid intense direct sun to prevent algae growth on leaves
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Watering Submerged in clean, well-circulated freshwater; maintain stable water parameters to support growth
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Temperature Thrives in tropical freshwater temperatures; avoid sudden drops below 18°C to prevent stress
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to lanceolate, glossy dark green, 3–5 cm long with short petioles
  • Rhizome: Thick, creeping green-brown stem; grows horizontally above substrate
  • Inflorescence: Pale yellow spadix enclosed in a green spathe; rarely produced in aquariums
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent water level; perform 20% weekly water changes

Fertilization

Diluted liquid aquarium fertilizer every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent algae blooms on leaf surfaces

Established aquarium water runoff:Use water from mature fish tanks; add directly to aquarium to supplement nutrients without chemical additives
Pruning
  • Trim yellowing or damaged leaves at the base of the petiole to preserve rhizome health
  • Thin overcrowded rhizome sections to improve water circulation and prevent rot
  • Gently brush algae from leaf surfaces during weekly water changes to maintain photosynthetic efficiency
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects if ingested

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from handling or ingestion

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Aquarium ornamental; emersed growth in paludariums and terrariums