Propagating Anubias hastifolia: Rhizome Division

How to propagate the large, arrow-leaved Anubias hastifolia by dividing the rhizome and mounting divisions on wood or rock, keeping the rhizome above the substrate.

Overview

Anubias is a genus in the family Araceae, native to tropical central and western Africa, where the plants grow in rivers, streams and marshes. Anubias hastifolia is one of the largest species, recognisable by its long heart-shaped, arrow-like (hastate) leaves on tall petioles — leaf-stems can reach about 67 cm with leaves up to 33 cm long.

It is an epiphyte that grows from a thick horizontal rhizome, attaching to wood or rock rather than rooting in soil. Its size makes it best for large aquariums and paludariums, where it can grow emersed.

Propagation Method (Rhizome Division)

Anubias propagates by rhizome division (it can also make side shoots or set seed). The rhizome is the thick horizontal stem from which all leaves and roots grow; mature plants develop long rhizomes that can be cut to create new plants.

Each division should carry several leaves along with its own roots, then be attached to hardscape so the rhizome stays exposed.

Step-by-Step

1. Choose a mature plant with a long rhizome bearing several leaves.
2. With clean scissors, cut the rhizome into sections, each keeping at least three to four leaves and its own roots.
3. Mount each section on driftwood or rock with sewing thread, or glue the roots in place with super glue gel, pressing for about 30 seconds.
4. Apply glue to the roots only — do not smother the rhizome, and leave it exposed to the water.
5. Place divisions in shaded, stable water and give them time to attach and grow.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

Anubias prefers subdued lighting and thrives in shaded areas; no CO2 is needed. Growth is notably slow — A. hastifolia typically produces only a few leaves per year — and it does well around 22-27°C. Because herbivorous fish tend to avoid it, it suits cichlid and goldfish tanks.

• Lighting: low / subdued; shade tolerant.
• Temperature: roughly 22-27°C.
• CO2: not required.
• Best in large tanks or paludariums given its size; can grow emersed.

Maintenance

Slow growth means little routine work: keep the rhizome uncovered, remove old or damaged leaves, and only divide once the rhizome has lengthened over time. Given a few leaves a year, expect patience between divisions.

Common Challenges

Rhizome rot is the key risk and it almost always traces back to a buried or glue-smothered rhizome. Keep the rhizome exposed, glue only the roots, and provide stable, gently shaded conditions to avoid problems.