Motley's Bucephalandra (Bucephalandra motleyana)

Motley's Bucephalandra

Bucephalandra motleyana

Its tiny, textured leaves bring quiet aquatic charm. Slow-growing epiphytic aquatic plant; common name: Buce.

Partial sun
constant/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Low to moderate indirect aquarium lighting; avoid intense direct sunlight that can cause leaf burn or algae growth on foliage
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Watering Fully submerged in freshwater; maintain stable water parameters with regular partial water changes to prevent nutrient buildup
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Temperature Best maintained at 22–26°C; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations below 18°C which can stress the plant
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Small, oval to lanceolate leaves; glossy green with subtle vein patterns; variable coloration under different light intensities
  • Stem: Creeping rhizomatous stems that anchor to hard surfaces like rock or wood
  • Inflorescence: Small, pale green spathe with a short, compact spadix (rarely produced in home aquariums)
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Care Guide

Watering

Perform 20–30% partial water changes weekly to maintain stable water quality

Fertilization

Diluted liquid aquarium fertilizer every 2 weeks. Target iron and micronutrient supplements to support healthy leaf development

Established aquarium water extract:Use water from a mature, well-cycled fish tank (without medication) to perform partial water changes; avoid over-dosing to prevent algae blooms
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown rhizomes to maintain a compact, neat growth form
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves promptly to prevent decay from spreading
  • Propagate by cutting rhizomes into 2–3 cm sections with attached leaves and reattaching to hard surfaces
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No documented toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Aquascaping focal point; low-growing foreground or midground aquarium plant