Anubias Nana

Anubias Nana - Dwarf Spearleaf for the Forezone

The Anubias Nana is one of the most popular and smallest Anubias species, perfectly suited as a front-zone plant. With its compact growth, short-stemmed dark green leaves of about 8 cm, and extreme robustness, this plant is ideal for both beginners and experienced aquascapers. The Anubias Nana is a true classic that should be part of every aquarium.

Why choose the Anubias Nana?

• Compact and decorative: Maximum height of only 10 cm, perfect for the front area
• Extremely easy: Requires little to normal light, ideal for beginners
• Very robust: Strong leaves that can withstand most fish
• Versatile placement: Mount on wood or stone, or plant in the front area
• Wide temperature tolerance: Thrives at 22-30°C
• Slow grower: Low maintenance, no constant pruning required
• Suitable for nano aquariums: Perfect for small aquariums due to compact growth.

Care and Placement

The Anubias Nana is a rhizome plant, meaning the rootstock (rhizome) should not be buried under sand or gravel to prevent rot. You can use the plant in several ways:

• On decoration: Attach the plant to driftwood or stones with plant glue or cotton thread
• In the front zone: Plant the rhizome so that it remains above the substrate
• As an accent: Use as a solitary plant or in groups for a natural effect.

Over time, the plant will naturally attach itself to the decoration material with its roots.

Technical Specifications

• Placement: Front & center zone | on wood and/or stone
• Maximum height: 10 cm
• Blade length: About 8 cm
• Leaf color: Dark green
• Temperature: 22-30°C
• pH: 5.0-8.0
• KH: 0-15
• CO2: 5-40 mg/l (not required, but promotes growth)
• Light requirements: Low to normal
• Origin: Africa
• Family: Araceae
• Type: Rhizome plant
• Dutch name: Dwarf Spearleaf
• Propagation: By division of the rhizome

Perfect for Aquascaping

The Anubias Nana is one of the most commonly used plants in aquascaping due to its compact growth and natural appearance. It's perfect for:

• Iwagumi-style aquascapes (on rocks)
• Natural biotope aquariums
• Nano aquariums and small aquariums
• Cichlid aquariums (robust leaves)
• Low-tech aquariums without CO2

Combination tips

Combine Anubias Nana with larger Anubias species like Anubias Barteri in the back for a layered effect. It also pairs well with Java moss, Bucephalandra, or smaller Cryptocoryne species. For a natural look, combine the plant with driftwood and rocks in an Iwagumi or Nature Aquarium style.