Propagating Anubias barteri var. glabra (Wrinkled Leaf)

Step-by-step rhizome division for the narrow, wrinkled-leaf Anubias barteri var. glabra: split healthy sections, glue or tie to hardscape, and keep the rhizome exposed.

Overview

Anubias barteri var. glabra is one of the four recognised varieties of Anubias barteri, a leathery-leaved aroid from southeastern Nigeria, Cameroon, and Bioko, first described in 1860. The glabra form carries elongated, lance-shaped, slightly wrinkled leaves on a creeping rhizome. Like the rest of the species it is an epiphyte that grows attached to wood and rock rather than rooted in soil, and it is slow growing and undemanding.

Propagation Method (Rhizome Division)

This variety is multiplied by rhizome division or by separating side shoots. New plants are not taken as leaf cuttings; instead the horizontal rhizome is cut into sections, each retaining leaves and roots so it can grow on independently.

Keep at least 3-4 healthy leaves on every division.
Established side shoots can be detached from the parent and treated as new plants.
Each division is then anchored to hardscape, mirroring how the species clings to rocks and wood in nature.

Step-by-Step

Lift the plant and rinse the rhizome so its full length is visible.
Pick a cut point that leaves at least 3-4 leaves on each side and slice cleanly through the rhizome with sterile scissors or a blade.
Glue each division to driftwood or rock with a line of super glue gel, or tie it with thread or fishing line.
Hold the rhizome against the surface for about 30 seconds until the glue sets, keeping the rhizome itself exposed.
Place the divisions back in the tank and wait several weeks for them to acclimatise and grow new leaves.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

The glabra variety thrives in low light and tolerates a broad lighting range; brighter light produces faster, more compact growth. Hold the temperature at 22-28 C (72-82 F). CO2 injection is not needed, and the leaves are hardy enough that they rarely melt when first submerged.

Maintenance

Because growth is slow, routine trimming is minimal. Expect a settling-in period of several weeks before new leaves appear. A light dose of fertiliser helps the plant adjust to a new tank, and pruning away aged leaves keeps the narrow, wrinkled foliage looking clean.

Common Challenges

The slow growth rate is the main test of patience. After dividing, the variety can take several weeks to push out new leaves, so wait before concluding that something is wrong.