Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia Care Guide
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia is a broad-leaved African epiphyte of the Araceae family, a slow-growing rhizome plant for shaded freshwater aquariums.
Overview
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia is a broad-leaved variety of the African species Anubias barteri, family Araceae. It is an epiphyte that grows attached to wood or rock rather than rooted in substrate, and is a slow-growing, shade-tolerant plant for freshwater aquariums.
Taxonomy
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Anubias
- Scientific name: Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia
- Recognized varieties of A. barteri: angustifolia, caladiifolia, glabra, nana
Habitat
Anubias barteri occurs in south-eastern Nigeria, Cameroon and on Bioko. The genus grows primarily in rivers and streams and may also be found in marshes, favouring shaded aquatic environments. In the broadleaf form the leaves are leathery and may grow to around 300 mm, and the species grows well both partially and fully submersed.
Tank requirements
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Lighting: low / subdued
- CO2: not required
- Maximum height: about 30 cm
- Placement: midground epiphyte
Growth and placement
This variety grows slowly and prefers subdued lighting; stronger light promotes faster, more compact growth but can encourage algae on the long-lived leaves. The rhizome must remain above the substrate, tethered to wood or rock, because burying it may cause rot.
Propagation
Propagation is by dividing the rhizome or separating side shoots; each division should keep several leaves and a section of healthy rhizome before re-attachment to a surface.