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Anubias Nana (Anubias barteri var. nana)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Anubias Nana

Beginner

Anubias barteri var. nana

Hardy shade plant from Africa. Typically attached to driftwood or rocks. Thrives without CO2 in low light — ideal for beginners. Very slow growth keeps layouts stable.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
20〜30℃
Size
5-15cm
Watering
Liquid fertilizer 1-2x monthly. Minimal feeding needed

About

Anubias barteri var. nana is a rheophytic aquatic plant in the family Araceae, native to West Africa. First described by Adolf Engler in 1899 and reduced to varietal status in 1979, it produces thick, dark-green leathery leaves from a horizontal rhizome. In the aquarium it must be attached to driftwood or rock using fishing line or aquarium-safe adhesive — burying the rhizome in the substrate causes rot. Its outstanding shade tolerance means it thrives under low to moderate illumination without CO2 supplementation, making it ideal for beginners. Excessive light promotes algae growth on the slow-growing leaves. Remarkably resilient across a wide range of water parameters, this robustness explains its enduring dominance in the hobby worldwide.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Basic Info

Origin

West Africa (Cameroon, Nigeria region)

Size

5-15cm

Temperature

20〜30℃

Watering & Fertilizer

Liquid fertilizer 1-2x monthly. Minimal feeding needed

Growing Tips

Attachment

Fix to wood or rock with thread/glue. Never bury the rhizome

Lighting

Low to medium light sufficient. Strong light encourages algae

CO2

Not needed. CO2 slightly speeds growth if provided

Notes

Leaves attract algae (esp. black beard). Shrimp help control it

Beginner-friendlyShade plantAttachedNo CO2 needed

Anubias Nana FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Anubias Nana?
A

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 Nana?
A

The ideal temperature for Anubias Nana is 20〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QHow large does Anubias Nana get?
A

The mature size of Anubias Nana is 5-15cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Anubias Nana?
A

Anubias Nana: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer 1-2x monthly. Minimal feeding needed. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Anubias Nana?
A

The price of Anubias Nana varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Anubias barteri var. nana (Engl.) Crusio

Authority databases: GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧(外来生物法) / CITES Appendix II 植物掲載分類群(科・属レベル)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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