Bolbitis Heudelotii
You will receive: 1 plant on wood or loose, ready to plant — freshly delivered from the nursery.
⚠️ Difficulty: Medium — Bolbitis Heudelotii is a slow grower that requires little light, but demands patience and correct placement.
Bolbitis Heudelotii, also known as Congo Fern or Glass Fern, is one of the most distinctive aquarium plants from West Africa. With its semi-transparent, deep green fern fronds and slow, sculptural growth, it is a timeless choice for aquariums with wood or stone. The plant attaches itself to hard surfaces with its rhizome — never plant it in the substrate.
🌿 Plant specifications
| Placement | Mid- & background | on wood or stone |
| Max. height | ±50 cm |
| Light | Low to normal |
| CO₂ | Not required (promotes growth) |
| Temperature | 18–28°C |
| pH | 5.0–7.0 |
| KH | 0–12 |
| Origin | West Africa (Congo Basin) |
| Family | Dryopteridaceae |
| Other names | Congo fern, African fern, Glass fern |
| Difficulty | ⭐⭐ Medium |
🚚 Delivery & warranty
- Freshly delivered from the nursery — ready to plant
- Shipping Tuesday or Friday → Read more about shipping
- Delivery with track & trace, usually within 1–2 business days
- Received dead? We will resolve this together. Contact us within 24 hours of receipt with a photo.
- Free shipping from €59,-
✂️ Care
Always attach the rhizome to wood or stone — never bury it in the substrate, as this will cause rot. Secure with cotton thread or use plant glue; after a few weeks, the plant will attach itself. Moderate water flow keeps the leaves clean and prevents algae growth. CO₂ is not required but accelerates growth and improves color. Liquid fertilization such as Sera Florena supports healthy development.
💡 Planter's tip
Propagate Bolbitis by splitting the rhizome or cutting off a runner. Ensure each part has at least 3 leaves with visible root growth for the best results.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Can I plant the rhizome in the substrate?
No — the rhizome must always remain above the substrate. Burying it will lead to rot and the death of the plant.
Does this plant grow without CO₂?
Yes, Bolbitis Heudelotii is one of the few plants that thrives without CO₂. With CO₂, it grows faster and achieves a more intense color.
My plant is losing leaves after arrival — is that normal?
Yes, this is transport stress and almost always temporary. Give the plant 2–4 weeks to acclimatize.
Is this plant suitable for a shrimp tank?
Yes, completely shrimp-friendly.
Do you have another question? Feel free to contact us — we are happy to help you make the right choice for your aquarium.
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