Propagating Anubias Congensis (Anubias heterophylla)

How to propagate the tall, narrow-leaved Anubias congensis by rhizome division, attach it to wood or rock, and grow it slowly in a low-light aquarium.

Overview

Anubias congensis is the aquarium trade name for Anubias heterophylla, one of the larger members of the genus. Its blades are elliptic to lance- or spear-shaped and can reach up to 38 cm long on stems that may be even longer, giving it a bold, upright midground presence.

The species is native to Central Africa, occurring from Cameroon and Gabon through the Congo basin to Angola. Like all Anubias it is a slow-growing rhizome epiphyte that thrives best when only partially submerged and not crowded by faster plants.

Propagation Method (Rhizome Division)

Anubias congensis is not propagated from stem or topping cuttings. It grows from a creeping, rooting rhizome 5 to 17 mm thick, and division of that rhizome is the standard way to multiply it. Each new piece must carry enough leaves and roots to support itself while it re-establishes.

Step-by-Step

Lift the plant and locate the thick horizontal rhizome running beneath the leaves.
Choose a cutting point so each section keeps three to four leaves plus its own roots.
Cut cleanly through the rhizome with sharp, sterile scissors or a blade.
Tie or glue each division onto driftwood or rock with fishing line or cyanoacrylate gel.
Return it to gentle flow and leave it undisturbed while new roots grip the surface.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

Anubias congensis is undemanding: low light, no added CO2, and a temperature around 24-27 C suit it well. Because growth is slow, give each division space so it is not shaded by faster neighbours, which is how it performs best in nature.

Light: low to moderate; intense light is unnecessary and encourages algae on the long-lived leaves.
Temperature: roughly 22-28 C, with 24-27 C ideal.
CO2: not required.
Placement: epiphyte on wood or rock, used as a midground accent.

Maintenance

Each leaf can persist for years, so maintenance is minimal. Wipe or shade-manage algae on older blades, remove any leaf that yellows or melts, and resist disturbing freshly divided pieces until their roots have taken hold.

Common Challenges

The main risks are a buried rhizome that rots and impatience: this plant grows very slowly and new shoots may take weeks. Algae can colonise the durable leaves under strong light, so keep lighting modest and flow gentle.