Source: Wikimedia Commons
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia
BeginnerAnubias barteri var. caladiifolia
The largest variety of Anubias barteri, whose mature leaves have a deeply heart-shaped base. Leaves are paler and softer than var. barteri, and because they live for years a clump can exceed 50 cm across within a few years.
About
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia is the largest variety of A. barteri, native to Cameroon and south-eastern Nigeria. It forms stands along the edges and shallows of fast rainforest streams and waterfalls, rooted in the bed or attached to rock. Blades reach 24 cm, narrowly to broadly ovate, and older plants develop a deeply cordate base. A vein branching backwards from a lateral vein into the basal lobe is diagnostic, and the margin is flat or barely wavy. Petioles can exceed 40 cm, and the leaves are paler and softer than in var. barteri. Several forms are traded; the broad heart-leaved '1705' is a numbered clone from an Australian tissue-culture lab. Because leaves live for years, slow growth still produces large clumps. In emersed culture the soft blades reportedly dry out and petioles detach easily. Tropica-grown plants are regularly sold in Japan.
Lifespan of the Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia
The Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia lives Perennial; leaves last several years.
Size of the Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia
The Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia grows to 10–40 cm tall (petioles may exceed 40 cm).
Temperature & humidity for the Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia
The ideal temperature for the Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
West Africa (Cameroon, south-eastern Nigeria)
Lifespan
Perennial; leaves last several years
Size
10–40 cm tall (petioles may exceed 40 cm)
Temperature
22〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Grows without CO2 or fertiliser
Growing Tips
Lighting
Tolerates low light. Its long-lived leaves collect algae under strong light, so semi-shade suits it.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Grows without CO2; additions speed growth.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–26°C; grows at pH 5–8.
Substrate & Attachment
The rhizome rots easily if buried. Tie it to driftwood or stone with fishing line, or plant it with the rhizome resting on top of the substrate.
Trimming & Propagation
Propagate by dividing the rhizome; trim old leaves at the base if the clump spreads too far.
Cautions
It can exceed 50 cm across in a few years, so it suits large tanks; emersed leaves dry out easily. Never release plants into the wild.
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia?
The ideal temperature for Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia?
The average lifespan of Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia is Perennial; leaves last several years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia get?
The mature size of Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia is 10–40 cm tall (petioles may exceed 40 cm). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia?
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia: watering & fertilizer — Grows without CO2 or fertiliser. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia?
The price of Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act or Species Conservation Act. Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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