Propagating Anubias Nana: Rhizome Division Guide

Learn to propagate Anubias barteri var. nana by dividing its rhizome into pieces, attaching them to wood or rock, and keeping the rhizome above the substrate.

Overview

Anubias barteri var. nana is a dwarf, slow-growing epiphyte from West Africa. It grows with its rhizome — the thick horizontal stem from which all leaves and roots emerge — resting above the substrate, tethered to rocks and wood rather than rooted in the ground. This hardy, low-light plant is ideal for beginners and tolerates a wide range of conditions.

Propagation Method: Rhizome Division

Anubias nana is propagated by rhizome division, optionally by separating side shoots. You cut the horizontal rhizome into sections and grow each as an independent plant. Because growth is very slow, expect propagation to take time, but the method is reliable and undemanding.

Step-by-Step

Remove the mother plant and rinse the rhizome to see its structure clearly.
Using clean scissors, cut the rhizome into pieces so each section keeps at least 3-4 leaves along with their roots.
Attach each division to driftwood or rock — tie it with sewing thread or press it onto a thin line of super-glue gel for about 30 seconds until set.
Place the mounted divisions back in the tank with the rhizome fully exposed above the substrate.
Over time the roots will grow and wrap around the hardscape, anchoring the plant firmly.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

Lighting: low light is sufficient; under stronger light leaves grow faster and stay more compact.
Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F).
pH 6-7.5, GH 3-10.
CO2 is not required; the plant absorbs nutrients mainly from the water column.

Maintenance

Dose an all-in-one liquid fertilizer as needed, since rhizome plants feed largely through the water column. Wipe slow-growing leaves if algae appears, and let the rhizome creep horizontally while leaves rise vertically. Little routine trimming is needed thanks to the very slow growth rate.