Anubias barteri

Anubias barteri is one of the most iconic and beloved freshwater aquarium plants in the world — and for good reason. This robust, slow-growing rhizome plant features broad, deep green leaves with a leathery texture that give any aquascape a lush, established look. Whether you are setting up your first planted tank or designing a competition-level aquascape, Anubias barteri is a plant that belongs in the conversation.

Planting tip: Never bury the rhizome in substrate — Anubias barteri should always be attached to driftwood, rock, or other hardscape with the rhizome fully exposed. Use cotton thread or aquarium-safe adhesive to secure it, and the plant will anchor itself naturally over time.

One of the greatest strengths of Anubias barteri is its exceptional hardiness. It thrives across a wide range of water parameters, tolerates low to moderate lighting, and grows perfectly well without CO₂ supplementation — making it an ideal choice for low-tech and high-tech tanks alike. Its slow, steady growth means it holds its shape and position in the aquascape for months without demanding constant attention.

In the aquascape, Anubias barteri works beautifully as a midground or background plant depending on tank size. Its broad leaves provide excellent shelter for shy fish, shrimp, and bottom dwellers, and the plant occasionally produces small white flowers underwater — a charming and unique bonus. It pairs naturally with mosses, Java Fern, Cryptocoryne, and fine-leaved stem plants, creating pleasing contrast in texture and form.

Whether you are building a nature-style aquascape, a low-maintenance community tank, or a shrimp-focused biotope, Anubias barteri delivers consistent beauty with minimal effort. Its timeless appearance, tolerance for a wide range of conditions, and adaptability to nearly any aquascape style make it a true cornerstone of the planted aquarium hobby.

Care & Specifications