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Anubias hastifolia
IntermediateAnubias hastifolia
A large Anubias with hastate to almost three-lobed leaves. It is considered poorly adapted to permanent submersion and does better grown emersed in a spacious paludarium than in an aquarium.
About
Anubias hastifolia is a large aroid from tropical West and Central Africa (Ghana to the Democratic Republic of the Congo), growing on shaded forest stream banks. The rhizome reaches 1.5 cm thick and petioles up to 63 cm. The blade is hastate to almost three-lobed, with a central lobe up to 26 × 12 cm and side lobes around 21 cm, and a flat margin. The spear-shaped leaf is the field mark, but it can only be reliably separated from the similar A. pynaertii by flower characters, and weak plants resemble A. gilletii. It is sometimes sold as 'Anubias gigantea', which is the name of a different, similar species. Although often marketed as an easy aquarium plant, Kasselmann (2010) notes it is poorly adapted to permanent submersion and better suited to emersed culture in large paludariums. Underwater it grows extremely slowly and dislikes being moved. Imported potted plants are sold by specialist shops in Japan.
Size of the Anubias hastifolia
The Anubias hastifolia grows to Petioles up to 63 cm, central lobe up to 26 cm (emersed); stays much smaller submerged.
Temperature & humidity for the Anubias hastifolia
The ideal temperature for the Anubias hastifolia is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
West and Central Africa (Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, DR Congo and others)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
Petioles up to 63 cm, central lobe up to 26 cm (emersed); stays much smaller submerged
Temperature
22〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Can be kept without CO2 or fertiliser
Growing Tips
Lighting
Prefers subdued light, emersed or submerged.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 and fertiliser are not essential; underwater growth is extremely slow.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–26°C in slightly acidic water (pH 5–7). Keep humidity high when grown emersed.
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. Established plants resent being moved, so choose the spot at the outset.
Cautions
Emersed leaves get big, so a spacious paludarium is needed to grow it to full size. Never release plants into the wild.
Anubias hastifolia FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Anubias hastifolia?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Anubias hastifolia?
The ideal temperature for Anubias hastifolia is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Anubias hastifolia get?
The mature size of Anubias hastifolia is Petioles up to 63 cm, central lobe up to 26 cm (emersed); stays much smaller submerged. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Anubias hastifolia?
Anubias hastifolia: watering & fertilizer — Can be kept without CO2 or fertiliser. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Anubias hastifolia?
The price of Anubias hastifolia 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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