Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia'
BeginnerBucephalandra sp. 'Theia'
A traded Bucephalandra with dense obovate, round-tipped leaves. Submerged leaves are red-brown to purple with a bluish sheen and silvery stomatal dots. It branches into a low, compact clump.
About
Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia' is produced by nurseries and tissue-culture labs under the trade name 'Theia'. Its exact origin and species are not known, but every Bucephalandra is endemic to Borneo, where they grow as rheophytes on rocks in the flood zone of streams. Leaf shape and colour identify it: shortly stalked, obovate leaves with a rounded tip, up to about 3.5 cm long. Emersed leaves are dark olive green, while submerged leaves turn red-brown to purple with a bluish sheen and show their stomata as many silvery dots. Compared with narrow, wavy-leaved lots such as 'Kedagang', the broad round leaves give a softer look. The rhizome, at least 4 cm long, creeps or ascends and branches freely, eventually forming a low bush about 6–7 cm high and 18 cm or more across. Growth is slow, but it is an easy, colourful Buce. A greener line is sold as 'Theia Green', so check the label if colour matters. Imported potted plants are regularly available from specialist shops in Japan.
Size of the Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia'
The Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia' grows to Forms a clump 6–7 cm tall and 18 cm or more wide; leaves up to 3.5 cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Borneo (exact locality unknown)
Lifespan
Perennial; maintained by division
Size
Forms a clump 6–7 cm tall and 18 cm or more wide; leaves up to 3.5 cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Colours best with steady CO2 and nutrients
Growing Tips
Lighting
Looks best under medium light.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Constant CO2 and nutrient supply improves colour and growth.
Water Temperature & Quality
Add it to a mature, stable tank. Sudden changes can make it shed leaves, though new shoots usually follow from the rhizome.
Substrate & Attachment
Best attached to stone or wood; if placed on the substrate, keep the rhizome uncovered and let roots grow down on their own.
Trimming & Propagation
Slow. Propagate by removing side or top shoots, which also encourages branching.
Cautions
Left undisturbed it forms a many-headed clump. Never release plants into the wild.
Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia' FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia'?
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.
QHow large does Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia' get?
The mature size of Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia' is Forms a clump 6–7 cm tall and 18 cm or more wide; leaves up to 3.5 cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia'?
Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia': watering & fertilizer — Colours best with steady CO2 and nutrients. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia'?
The price of Bucephalandra sp. 'Theia' 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. No Bucephalandra variety is registered in Japan's plant variety protection database (as of September 2026). 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
Related Articles
Complete Guide to Growing Bucephalandra | Attachment Methods and Choosing Popular Varieties
Detailed guide on how to cultivate Bucephalandra, an aquatic plant native to Borneo. We introduce attachment methods, water quality management, propagation techniques, and popular varieties' characteristics and selection tips.
Bucephalandra Collection and Care Guide | The Jewel of Borneo Aquatic Plants
Explaining types and care methods for Bucephalandra. Introduction to attachment methods, variety collections, and fundamental knowledge of distribution and classification.
Aquatic Plant Tank Used Soil and Substrate Disposal and Recycling Methods | Correct Disposal Methods and Reuse Tips
Explains the correct disposal methods for used substrate in aquatic plant tanks. Introduces the proper disposal procedures according to local municipal rules and the concept of reuse for short-term usage.
Beginner-Friendly Aquatic Plants Without CO2 Supplementation | Cultivation Conditions and Tank Layout Strategies
You can create a beautiful aquarium without expensive CO2 equipment. This guide explains practical methods for selecting CO2-free aquatic plants that beginners can successfully grow, from cultivation conditions to tank layout strategies.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.