Anubias Nana: Guide To Caring, Planting, and Propagation

If you’re in search of the perfect aquatic plant to beautify your aquarium then the Anubias Nana is one of the most sought-after choices. The vibrant, bright plant is beautiful and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance.

Anubias Nana is a small plant that has broad leaves. Its dark green color makes it a beautiful plant, and it helps keep the water in your tank fresh and oxygenated.

It is possible to plant the Anubias water plant which is freshwater in a habitat of up to 10 gallons. With a little patience and a bit of substratum, you will be able to keep your plant flourishing.

It’s not just that a lush green plant can make your aquarium more vibrant however, numerous fish thrive in a setting that is more closely matched to their natural habitat. That includes plants that aid in oxygenating the water.

The aquarium’s Anubias Nana is part of the Araceae family. It’s a vibrant, green plant that is able to thrive in an aquarium just like it is outdoors. It also grows well without much hand-holding, which makes it very popular with aquatic pet owners.

The maximum height for the Anubias Nana can be 7.5 -8 inches. It’s likely that your new aquatic plant grows slowly, so it doesn’t require much lighting.

If you are looking to grow multiple Anubias water plants for your aquarium, it’s quite easy to reproduce this water plant yourself.

Adding plants to your aquarium can be a challenge for novices because it’s an additional thing that has to be cared for. It is good to know that this species is extremely durable and is able to withstand the most common mistakes novices make.

It’s not a fast-growing plant, which means you don’t have to put any effort into maintaining it. Just trim it every now and then. It’s easy to propagate, too and you can begin by introducing a small amount, and slowly increase it in your tank.

Check out the Anubias maintenance guide and learn more about the best ways to take care of this low-maintenance aquatic plant varietal… This article will show you how to take care of Anubias Nana, with a focus on the ideal configurations, propagation techniques, and much more.

Anubias Nana Facts & Overview

CategoryRating
Family:Araceae
Care Level:Easy
Growth Rate:Slow
Anubias Nana Size:7.5 inches (Maximum)
Minimum Tank Size:10 gallons
Water Condition:72-82degF, pH 6-7.5, 3-8 KH
Lighting:Low-moderate
Propagation:Rhizome division
Placement:From the foreground to the background

Anubias nana (Anubias barteri var. the nana) is a species of the species of freshwater plant Anubias barteri of the Araceae family. Although they are the most commonly used names, it is often referred to as dwarf Anubias.

Many common aquarium plants originate from Asia However, this species is indigenous in Africa (Cameroon along with Nigeria).

Its tough nature means that it is able to be used in various conditions. It is able to grow completely or partially submerged, which makes it a popular choice in a variety of aquariums and paludariums.

Being one of the shortest plants It is the perfect choice to cover the substrate and create habitats for bottom-dwelling fish (like catfish and loaches). This gives more space to swim higher up on the surface.

The leaves of these plants are deep green which adds appealing color to the surface of the tank. They shouldn’t have any issues with propagation, and it’s easy and cheap to spread this color throughout your tank.

Additionally, Anubias nana will help to manage nitrate levels and eliminate pollutants, and oxygenate the water. This helps keep the tank in good health and decreases the cleaning load.

You might have seen the Anubias Nana petite (Anubias barteri variation. nana petite) This is a smaller version of the Anubias Nana that is only 5cm tall.

Appearance

They are sturdy plant that has strong deep green stem. The maximum height is 7.5 inches, which is similar to the typical Anubias congensis’s height, however, it can vary based on the environment in the aquarium.

Because they’re short, they tend to cover the lower levels. The stems are planted in the soil and don’t often sit over the surface. Leaves are dark green and split out from the stem, allowing them to form the teardrop shape that is found in many species.

Even though each leaf is a little thin, however, they’re protected by cuticles that help strengthen them.

The majority of Anubias varieties are larger and some can grow up to 20 inches in height. This variety is ideal to fill an aquarium that is average in size due to its small size. You could also pick an Anubias dwarf–which tops at around 5 inches tall — or an Anubias narrow leaf, which has a more slim leaf form.

Anubias Nana is a bright green leaf that develops in clusters. The stems of the plant are dark green and the leaves have sharp diagonal lines. There is a possibility that your Anubias flower is white in certain instances, however, most plants don’t bloom.

Sometimes, this plant will produce the appearance of a white, creamy flower. It is possible to flower them in a set-up of a paludarium with the plant only partially submerged. They also bloom while submerged, and thus make an excellent plant to be a focal point. The flowers can last between two and three months after blooming.

If you keep multiple plants together, you can make an amazing display of colors that spreads out as you’d like.

Healthy people have the most vibrant colors.

White roots hold the stems too. They move through the soil as the plant develops before being buried when it is planted.

If you don’t wish to put them in a grave it is possible to attach them to bogwood or rocks since they will grow around them.

Anubias Nana Care

Buying Anubias Nana

When purchasing your plant, you’re looking for the healthy plant you can get. There are some things to be aware of when selecting your plant.

  • Color is an important indicator. Anubias natural nana is dark green. If the colors are diminished or are dotted with areas of yellow or brown it is a sign that something is wrong with the plant.
  • These leaves may be very heavy so having a sturdy stem is vital. It is best to avoid plants that aren’t strong enough to hold themselves.
  • Finally, look for damage that is general. The leaves may be damaged by rips. This could reduce photosynthesis and slow growth. A damaged plant is also less likely to live when you plant them back within the aquarium.

Because it is a well-known species, it is available in the majority of aquarium stores. Its popularity allows it to be quite inexpensive and you can purchase an excellent species for under $5.

There are times when it is sold with rocks or bogwood for higher prices.

Common Issues

The most significant hazards that can affect the overall health and well-being of the Anubias fish tank are algae and light. Too high levels of either of them can cause the plant to die rapidly. These elements are known to choke an aquatic plant and should be taken care of within your aquarium.

This species is known to cause increased algae since it is growing so slowly. The massive, strong leaves also offer prime habitats for algae to flourish. If you observe algae growth within your surroundings and on plants, altering the water could help. Fish species that eat algae can help to keep this menace at bay. Be cautious not to add too many nutrients to your water, since this could increase the growth of algae.

If you think your aquarium’s Abubias Nana is receiving too much light you might want to consider shifting it to a different spot within the habitat. A shaded spot can make sure that your plant doesn’t receive too much sunlight since Anubias Naia’s needs for light are usually lower. Also, plants in the shade do not tend to get more algae growth.

Tank Requirements

If you were to go out in the open, you can discover Anubias nana on river banks, completely or partially submerged in water that is shallow. It has ample exposure to light to produce photosynthesis.

The substrate will be soft and muddy which makes it easy for roots to grow and absorb nutrients from the surrounding environment. The water is slightly acidic and warm. This is a simple condition to replicate in a home aquarium.

A heater is a great option for keeping the temperature warm. It is necessary to have a range of 72-82 deg F, with a pH ranging from 6 to 7.5 with a range of 3-8 KH.

This plant is thriving in soils that have fine grains as it lets its roots develop and grow, while also ensuring they remain in the soil.

Sand is the softest and therefore most unlikely to harm it.

There’s no need to invest in any specific lighting. Regular aquarium lights are sufficient. Be sure that the light is hitting the leaves and that the plants aren’t situated in shaded areas. Because of their size, they can be kept in tiny tanks of about 10 gallons.

Maintenance and Care

It is recommended to begin with an Anubias Nana plant that has already sprouted and started to grow. A good aquascape candidate includes vibrant green leaves, the absence of damaged or rips on leaves, and sturdy stems that won’t allow the leaves to drop. It’s generally more straightforward to keep a vigorously growing plant than to nurture the sick plant to health in a new environment.

Anubias Nana is a slow-growing species, making it among the plants that are easy to maintain.

It’s only going to need trimming every now and again (when the stems are excessively long).

It is essential to keep your tank in good condition, otherwise, the buildup of pollution will eventually become poisonous and destroy any life within the tank. A regular water change (every few weeks) can control the nitrate levels.

Cleaning the tank helps keep the water in good condition as well. This helps make light more easily accessible to plants for photosynthesis.

As the plant grows, it absorbs nutrients from the water. If there aren’t enough nutrients, growth will slow down.

If you suspect that this is the reason why your plants don’t seem to be growing, there are a variety of nutrients that are available in retail shops. Another option is to choose nutrient-rich substrates. Be sure to ensure that you’re not adding too many nutrients, or you’ll be promoting algae growth.

The species can be grown on the substrate. However, keep the fact that you do not intend to plant the roots of Anubia far enough, or the plant may end up dying. Instead, select an area with rocks or sand–fertilizer can be added if you want will allow the roots space to develop. There is a possibility of seeing the roots of the plant growing around driftwood or rocks in time this is normal.

It is possible to place your Anubias freshwater plant is able to be planted in almost any place in your aquarium. They are typically utilized as plants for the foreground, but because they don’t require lots of sunlight it is also possible to place these plants on the back.

For ideal conditions for an aquarium, the ideal aquarium conditions are Anubias aquatic plant should be kept in water that is between 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. It is possible to use an electric water heater to regulate temperature when needed. The ideal pH is between 6 and 7.5 usually thought to be neutral.

You could add CO2 to get a similar result (since it is absorbed in the process of photosynthesis) However, Anubias nana is able to do this by utilizing the CO2 released by the fish when they breathe. Too much CO2 can cause harm to your fish.

Planting or Floating?

Is Anubias Nana Good For Aquarium

Anubias Nana is a cultivated species, which means it will not be a good floating plant in the long run.

The plant can be placed on the ground or attached to ornaments – the roots will expand and become a part of objects. This lets you put color wherever you’d like.

The leaves aren’t just decorative, however, they create a home for fish. The leaves offer a respite from other fish who are a nuisance and provide shaded zones for those who want to escape the sun. Because it’s a plant species you are able to select the position of every plant that aids in aquascaping the tank. This is different from floating plants which are tossed around.

If you are looking for an aquatic plant that is floating on the water, then the hornwort is a very popular and durable choice.

How to Plant Anubias Nana

Incorporating an Anubias Nana into your aquarium usually only several minutes. Cut off any brown or damaged leaves prior to planting, and then create a space for the plant within the substrate. Be careful with the rhizome, which is the root mass beneath the new plant. If you plant the rhizome too deeply, you may end at the end of killing your new plant.

When you notice that your aquatic plant is struggling to remain upright, you can utilize fishing wire to tie the plant’s stem to the base of your habitat until roots begin to take root. This is typically more effective than burying the plant’s base further.

If you are planning to plant your Anubias Nana There are a few points to be considered.

Do not plant it in areas that are shaded. The leaves require sunlight for photosynthesis. Without this, they’ll end up dying.

You must ensure that there is enough space between the plants (keep them at a minimum of two inches from each other). If you have too many plants in one space will deplete resources and the plants will have to be competitive with each other, and some may end up dying as a result.

A soft surface is ideal for roots, as in the wild, they’d be growing on muddy riverbanks. Sand is a great option and any gravel that is fine-grained is acceptable.

Planting Anubias On Driftwood

Another way that the plant can be used to enhance aquascaping is by affixing The Anubias with driftwood. This is easily done using an unobstructed fishing line or fine cotton. Put the plant on the piece of driftwood or any other design you like, then gently use the cotton to secure the plant down.

It is not necessary to bury the roots as they’ll begin to rot when fully submerged.

A thin or fine fishing line is a great option to secure the roots of the decorations. This helps secure them until the roots become enough strong to hold them securely.

After a couple of weeks, the roots of the plant will be stuck to the ground and you will be able to take off the cotton tie.

Anubias Nana Propagation

Anubias Nana is among the easiest living seeds to grow. They reproduce by means of the rhizome division method.

Simply put, when their stems split and fall back to the substrate the stems develop into their own plants.

With sterilized, sharp scissors, you can take pieces of plants that are fully grown. Put these cuttings back in the soil elsewhere and they’ll soon become their own plants. It only takes several days to begin growing roots.

Each cutting must include a minimum of three leaves to ensure that the plant will be able to photosynthesize (this is necessary to increase the growth).

Don’t expect much more from the original plant, as it is likely to struggle to survive.

There is no need to establish any specific conditions for your tank to allow proliferation, but your plants will thrive in water that is clean and filled with light, nutrients, as well as CO2.

You can utilize CO2 and nutrients to boost this. However, ensure you consider the impact they’ll have on the other living things within your tank.

Anubias Nana Tank Mates and Compatibility

It’s not easy to take down an Anubias baby, so it is possible to pair it with virtually every living thing in your aquarium as long as they are able to thrive in similar lighting and water conditions.

Anubias nana can be kept alongside any other aquarium plant so that you don’t plant them overly densely. The overcrowding can cause resources to be exhausted and certain plants will go extinct.

Because this species is small and can cover the bottom of your tank you can make use of water sprite to bring interest in the middle levels or use hornwort to create floating.

The plant might not be suitable for species that require lots of sunlight throughout the day. If your plant lives in a nutrient-dependent way the Anubias freshwater plant might begin to trigger excessive algae growth.

If you spot an animal eating leafy parts of the Anubias Nana, trim off damaged leaves as quickly as possible.

A majority of freshwater fish are able to be kept with Anubias babies as well. Catfish and loaches living on the lowest level of the tank can reap the greatest benefit because they can hide within the leaves.

The leaves are small and wide which could cause harm as fish search for food. Try to avoid species susceptible to nibbling. Goldfish are one of the most common examples however many other fish are guilty of eating plant matter too.

They are able to handle little damage, however, it is recommended to minimize this to the maximum extent possible. Study the fish prior to adding them, so that you can anticipate how they’ll behave.

Some excellent tank mates are Yoyo Loaches Zebra Loaches Corydoras Catfish, Dwarf Gourami, Mollies, Danios, tetras, Guppies, Cherry Barbs, and, in fact, the majority of Cichlids.

There are a lot of options which means that you can keep the nana of Anubia in a wide variety of freshwater aquariums.

FAQs

Does Anubias Nana Need Soil?

Anubias barteri nana, which is growing in soil. It’s a myth that they can’t be cultivated in soil within the aquarium. However, they do well in the soil or aqua soil in the case that their rhizome is not submerged. They absorb nutrients via their roots in the same way as many other plants.

How Big Will Anubis Nana Increase in Size?

Anubias barteri var. Nana is a tiny attractive and beautiful plant that thrives in any condition. It comes from Cameroon and will grow to 5-10 centimeters in height. The rhizome is 10-15 centimeters or greater.

Is Anubis Nana easy to understand?

Anubias nana is among the easiest plants to care for. Because it’s a species that grows slowly It only requires to be cut back periodically when the stems become excessively long.

How Do You Rate Anubias Nana’s Expansion?

The plants are distinguished by their broad, wide leaves and dark green hue. Based on the particular species, it may have left as small as a half-inch long up to five inches. Anubias species develop slowly and usually takes approximately 4-6 weeks for the new leaf to develop.

Can You Float Anubias?

Anubias Nana “Petite” is extremely easy to cultivate and is an excellent plant for beginners. It requires little attention and can be sunk into the tank or affixed to ornaments.

Can You Grow Anubias in the Sand?

The reason this plant is listed on the top list of species to can grow in the sand is that it is important not to submerge the roots. It doesn’t matter which substrate you are using (or the type of substrate you have).

Can Anubias Survive Out of Water?

The majority of people plant them under (submersed) However, the plants tend to grow best in emersion, or without their leaves in the water.

Is Anubias Nana Suitable for Your Aquarium? (Summary)

The Anubias nana could be an excellent choice for aquarium plants. For avid aquarium lovers, It’s a low-maintenance plant that grows quite easily.

For fish, the plant could provide a tranquil escape from other fish and places that are well-lit in the habitat.

They are also beneficial because they can help eliminate contaminants that can harm your plants of the water.

It is possible to place the plant virtually anywhere in the aquarium, making it a valuable piece of décor. Anubias nana naturally spreads easily which means you can have wide coverage from just one plant.

It is possible to keep the plant in a variety of configurations and the majority of freshwater tanks are suitable. So long as the water parameters are within the acceptable range, with plenty of sunlight, and a smooth substrate then your Anubias baby will do well.

This plant is able to be kept in a pond with a variety of kinds of fish. However, in order to avoid excess destruction, stay clear of species that are known to be susceptible to eating plants. Many other freshwater fish species aren’t a problem.

Another benefit of this particular plant is the fact that it’s easily propagated, meaning you can begin with a small amount of it, cut it up, and then plant even more.

It is a favorite choice for all age levels because of its durable nature. If you choose it, you’ll be unlikely to regret it.

What is the aquarium you store your Anubias Nana in? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below…

Dibyajyoti Bordoloi is the creator and author of FishCampRehab.com, a third-generation experienced fish keeper and owner of a successful pet breeding farm. He is also a member of the Center for Wildlife Rehabilitation And Conservation (Assam), the Marine Aquarium Societies of North East India, and the Kaziranga Nature Conservancy of Assam.