Propagating Anubias Lanceolata: Rhizome Division Guide

Learn to propagate Anubias barteri var. lanceolata by rhizome division: how to split, attach to wood or rock, and grow this hardy lance-leaf epiphyte.

Overview

Anubias barteri var. lanceolata is a slow-growing West African aquatic plant of the family Araceae, with narrow lanceolate leaves that give it a more elegant look than the broad-leaf form. Like all Anubias barteri, it is an epiphyte: the rhizome stays above the substrate, tethered to rocks and wood, and it grows well both partially and fully submersed.

Because it is leathery-leaved, hardy and tolerant of a wide range of lighting, it is one of the easiest aquarium plants to multiply at home. Propagation does not involve cutting stems, but dividing the rhizome.

Propagation Method (Rhizome Division)

Anubias barteri can be propagated by dividing the rhizome or by separating side shoots. Each division should keep its own roots and several leaves so it can re-establish quickly. This is a vegetative method that produces clones of the parent plant.

Step-by-Step

Remove the parent plant and gently rinse the rhizome so you can see its leaf nodes and roots.
Choose a point on the rhizome where you can cut a piece bearing at least 3-4 leaves with their own roots.
Cut cleanly with sharp, sterilised scissors, leaving the parent with enough leaves to recover.
Tie or glue each division to a piece of driftwood or rock, keeping the rhizome on top of, not buried in, the surface.
Return the divisions to the tank in a shaded spot and leave them undisturbed while new roots grip the surface.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

Anubias generally prefer subdued lighting and should be placed in shaded areas, otherwise algae will develop on the leaves. In strong light the leaves grow faster and stay more compact, but the plant tolerates a range of lighting. It prefers a temperature range of 22-28 C and grows well partially and fully submersed. No added CO2 is required, and it feeds from both the water column and its roots.

Maintenance

Keep the rhizome exposed at all times; replant only if it works loose from its anchor.
Wipe or shade leaves if algae appears, since growth is slow and leaves are long-lived.
Trim only old or damaged leaves at the base; the plant needs no regular cutting.
Give divisions weeks to months to root firmly before moving them again.

Common Challenges

The most frequent mistake is burying the rhizome, which causes it to rot. Algae on the slow-growing leaves is a sign of too much light, so move the plant to shade. Because growth is slow, divisions need patience: do not expect rapid new leaves, and avoid disturbing freshly attached pieces.