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Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia
BeginnerAnubias barteri var. coffeifolia
An Anubias whose leaf blades bulge strongly between the veins, like coffee leaves. New leaves emerge orange- to red-brown and turn dark green. It often flowers under water.
About
Anubias coffeefolia is a form of Anubias barteri (Araceae) that Christel Kasselmann described in 2010 as var. coffeifolia. It had long been sold as 'Coffeefolia' or 'Coffeifolia', but its exact wild origin is unknown and it may have arisen in cultivation. Three features identify it: new leaves emerge orange- to red-brown before turning dark green, young petioles are brownish red, and the blade bulges strongly between the lateral veins, recalling a coffee leaf. Other A. barteri varieties (barteri, glabra, nana and so on) lack both the puckering and the coloured flush. At about 15–25 cm it does not get too large, so it works in small and large tanks alike. It often flowers submerged but sets no seed there. Growth is very slow and care is the same as for other A. barteri forms; it tolerates low light. Imported potted plants are regularly available from specialist shops in Japan.
Size of the Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia
The Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia grows to 15–25 cm tall.
Temperature & humidity for the Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia
The ideal temperature for the Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Exact wild origin unknown (a form of the West/Central African A. barteri; possibly arose in cultivation)
Lifespan
Perennial; long-lived leaves, maintained by division
Size
15–25 cm tall
Temperature
22〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Grows without CO2 or fertiliser
Growing Tips
Lighting
Tolerates low light. Moderate light shows off the red-brown flush, but very strong light invites algae on the leaves.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Can be kept without CO2; additions speed growth slightly.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–26°C; grows at pH 5–8 and is not fussy about water.
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
Growth is very slow. Propagate by dividing the rhizome and remove only damaged old leaves.
Cautions
Among A. barteri forms it is particularly slow, so choose a plant with plenty of leaves. Never release plants into the wild.
Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia?
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. coffeifolia?
The ideal temperature for Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia get?
The mature size of Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia is 15–25 cm tall. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia?
Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia: watering & fertilizer — Grows without CO2 or fertiliser. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia?
The price of Anubias barteri var. coffeifolia 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.
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