Propagating Anubias afzelii 'Compacta': Rhizome Division Guide

Learn to propagate the compact West African Anubias afzelii 'Compacta' by rhizome division, attaching pieces to wood or rock for slow, hardy epiphytic growth.

Overview

Anubias afzelii 'Compacta' is a compact form of the West African species Anubias afzelii, native to wet, shady places in Senegal, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Mali. Like all Anubias it is an aroid (family Araceae) that grows from a creeping, rooting rhizome and is most often kept as an epiphyte, attached to driftwood or rock rather than planted in substrate.

It is a slow, undemanding plant that thrives under subdued light and does not require CO2 injection. Because the leaves emerge from a thick rhizome, propagation is done by dividing that rhizome rather than by topping cuttings.

Propagation Method (Rhizome Division)

Anubias is reproduced by dividing the rhizome or by separating side shoots. A longer, established rhizome is cut into segments, and each segment grows into an independent new plant. The key requirement is that every division carries enough leaves and roots to support itself while it re-establishes.

Step-by-Step

Select a mature plant whose rhizome has visibly extended and carries several leaf clusters.
Using a clean, very sharp blade or scissors, cut the rhizome into pieces, each with 3-4 leaves and its own roots; make a clean cut without crushing the rhizome.
Attach each division to driftwood or rock using cotton thread or super-glue gel, keeping the rhizome fully exposed above the surface.
Return the mount to subdued light and stable, clean water and allow several weeks for new leaves to appear.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

Lighting: low to subdued; strong light encourages algae on the leaves.
Temperature: roughly 22-28 C, matching its warm West African range.
CO2: not required; the plant grows well without injection.
Placement: epiphytic on wood or rock, suited to the midground.

Maintenance

Keep the rhizome and roots exposed and free of debris, maintain clean, filtered water to limit algae, and be patient: Anubias may add only one leaf every few weeks. Remove any old or damaged leaves at the base to keep the compact form tidy.

Common Challenges

Algae on the slow-growing leaves is the other frequent issue and usually signals too much light or excess organic waste; reduce lighting and improve filtration to resolve it.