Propagating Anubias Gracilis: Rhizome Division Guide

How to propagate Anubias gracilis, the triangular-leaf Anubias, by rhizome division: splitting, attaching to wood or rock, and growing it submersed or emersed.

Overview

Anubias gracilis is a distinctive species of the genus Anubias, native to tropical central and western Africa, with triangular to heart-shaped leaves on long slender petioles that give it an open, airy look. Anubias primarily grow in rivers and streams but can also be found in marshes, and they can be grown both submersed and emersed, which makes gracilis a good choice for paludariums and open-top tanks.

Like other Anubias it is an epiphyte that thrives when the rhizome and roots are left exposed and attached to rock or driftwood rather than buried. Propagation is vegetative, by dividing the rhizome.

Propagation Method (Rhizome Division)

Anubias propagation can be accomplished by division of the rhizome or from side shoots. Each new piece must carry its own roots and several leaves to re-establish. The result is a genetic clone of the parent plant.

Step-by-Step

Lift the parent plant and rinse the rhizome so the nodes, petioles and roots are visible.
Identify a section of rhizome bearing at least 3-4 leaves together with attached roots.
Cut through the rhizome with clean, sharp scissors, leaving each piece with leaves and roots.
Tie or glue the division onto driftwood or rock, keeping the rhizome above the surface.
Place it in a shaded position and leave it undisturbed while the roots take hold.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

Anubias generally prefer subdued lighting and should be placed in shaded areas, otherwise algae will develop on the leaves. They grow slowly and need no added CO2, feeding from the water column and roots. With its long petioles, gracilis does well in shade beneath taller plants or hardscape, and it can be grown emersed above the waterline in humid setups.

Maintenance

Keep the rhizome exposed and re-anchor any piece that comes loose.
Reduce light or add shade at the first sign of algae on the leaves.
Remove only old or damaged leaves at the base; routine trimming is unnecessary.
Allow plenty of time for slow-growing divisions to root before relocating them.

Common Challenges

Burying the rhizome is the main cause of failure, as it leads to rot. Excess light produces algae on the slow leaves, so position gracilis in shade. The long petioles can be fragile, so handle divisions gently and avoid moving freshly attached pieces until they have rooted.