Propagating Broad Coffee Anubias by Rhizome Division

How to propagate broad-leaf coffee Anubias by dividing its rhizome and attaching pieces to wood or rock, with care tips for slow, reliable epiphytic growth.

Overview

Anubias barteri is a hardy West African aroid from the family Araceae, found in southeastern Nigeria, Cameroon and Bioko island. It is an epiphyte: its thick horizontal rhizome stays above the substrate, tethered to rocks and wood, while leaves and roots grow from it. The 'Coffee Broad' form shows broad, deeply bullate (bumpy) leaves that emerge in a coffee-brown tone before darkening to olive green. Leathery leaves of the broadleaf type can reach up to 30 cm. The plant thrives both partially and fully submerged and grows slowly but reliably.

Propagation Method: Rhizome Division

Anubias barteri is propagated by dividing the rhizome or by separating side shoots. Because the rhizome is the thick horizontal stem from which all leaves and roots grow, each divided section must keep its own leaves and roots so it can survive and continue growing independently after being remounted.

Step-by-Step

Choose a mature plant with a long rhizome carrying several leaves and a healthy root mass.
With clean, sharp scissors cut the rhizome into pieces, making sure each piece has its own leaves and roots.
Mount each piece on driftwood or rock using super glue gel or sewing thread: draw a small line of glue on the hardscape and press the roots firmly for about 30 seconds until set.
If you tie with thread, do not tie so tightly that the rhizome is damaged.
If you prefer substrate, bury only the roots and leave the rhizome resting on top.
Place divisions in gentle flow and shaded light, then leave them undisturbed to re-establish.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

Temperature: 22–28 °C (72–82 °F), the range this species prefers.
Lighting: low to moderate; stronger light produces faster, more compact growth but can encourage algae on slow Anubias leaves.
CO2 is not required for this undemanding epiphyte.
Gentle water flow suits the broad, bullate leaves and keeps debris off them.

Maintenance

Once attached, the roots grow and wrap around the hardscape until the plant becomes difficult to remove. Keep the rhizome clear of substrate at all times, gently brush off settled detritus, and remove any old or damaged leaves at the base. Growth is slow, so patience is essential rather than frequent intervention.

Common Challenges

Rhizome rot from burying the rhizome in substrate — keep it exposed.
Algae on leaves due to slow growth under strong light — reduce lighting and improve flow.
Slow recovery after division — divisions need time to settle before pushing new leaves.