Anubias come from West Africa, where they grow in shady, moist places. Their water tolerance makes them popular plants for aquariums. There are a few types to choose from for purchase. This means the most suitable copy can be found for every need.
Which Anubias species are there?
The available Anubias species are Anubias afzelii, Anubias barteri, Anubias gilletii, Anubias gracilis, Anubias hastifolia, Anubias heterophylla and Anubias pynaertii. These aquatic plants are popular in aquariums and terrariums and differ in growth habit, light requirements and water conditions.
Overview of species
There are many species of Anubia, not all of them have made it to us. These are the botanical names of the Anubias species available from us:
- Anubias afzelii
- Anubias barteri
- Anubias gilletii
- Anubias gracilis
- Anubias hastifolia
- Anubias heterophylla
- Anubias pynaertii
Tip
The trade uses different names for these species. To make sure you get the Anubia you want, you should take a closer look or ask the dealer.
Anubias afzelii
- grows up to 40 cm high in water
- requires more light than the other species
- can tolerate hard water and higher pH values
- often offered as Anubias congensis
Tip
The leaves of this species are hard. That's why the plant is ideal for aquariums with perches, as these animals rarely nibble on it.
Anubias barteri
- is the most common in this country
- there are several subspecies
- some are a few centimeters tall
- others grow up to 50 cm high
- also suitable for terrariums
Tip
If you want to cultivate an Anubia as a bonsai, then use the subspecies Anubias barteri var. Nana.
Anubias gilletii
- a rarity in the trade
- can tolerate shade and brightness
- Leaf stems grow up to 40 cm long
- partly with spikes
Anubias gracilis
- also known as ivy-leaved spree leaf
- needs little light
- has very long petioles
- therefore not very decorative in aquariums
- grows higher in terrariums
Anubias hastifolia
- also called spearleaf spearleaf
- there are different shapes
- are not ideal for water
- Cultivation in terrariums is recommended
- this Anubia doesn't like transplanting
Anubias heterophylla
- known as Congo Spear Leaf
- grows up to 60 cm high
- grows upright and bushy after planting
- ideal terrarium plant
- can be easily propagated from rhizomes
Anubias pynaertii
- can tolerate shade
- has up to 45 cm long petioles
- is rather unsuitable as an aquatic plant
- can be propagated by rhizome division
