Propagating Anubias 'Snow White'

A guide to propagating the white tissue-culture cultivar Anubias 'Snow White' by rhizome division, why its pale leaves grow slowly, and how to attach it.

Overview

Anubias 'Snow White' is a cultivar of Anubias barteri var. nana selected for pale white to cream leaves that gradually green with age. The reduced chlorophyll that gives it the colour also means it grows even more slowly than ordinary nana, making it a prized collector's plant.

Anubias barteri itself is a West African rhizome plant from Nigeria, Cameroon and Bioko. As with the parent species, 'Snow White' keeps its rhizome above the substrate and tethers to rocks and wood rather than rooting in soil.

Propagation Method (Rhizome Division)

'Snow White' is multiplied by dividing the rhizome or by separating side shoots, not by stem cuttings. Because its tissue carries little chlorophyll, each division has limited energy reserves, so divisions should be generous and the light reasonably good to help them recover.

Step-by-Step

Remove the plant and find the rhizome 10-15 cm long beneath the leaves.
Pick a cut point so each division keeps three to four leaves and its own roots.
Cut through the rhizome with clean, sharp scissors.
Attach each division to a stone or tree root with fishing line until it gains a hold.
Place it under moderate light and leave it to root undisturbed.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

'Snow White' needs no CO2 and tolerates a range of lighting, but its low chlorophyll means good (not blinding) light helps it hold its colour and grow. A temperature of 22-28 C suits it, and slow growth lets its long-lived leaves persist for years.

Light: moderate and steady; the pale leaves photosynthesise less, so do not leave it in deep shade.
Temperature: 22-28 C.
CO2: not required, though stable conditions help a slow grower.
Placement: epiphyte attached to rock or wood.

Maintenance

Leaves survive for several years, so trimming is rare. Remove any leaf that melts or yellows, watch for algae on the slow, durable foliage, and avoid moving freshly divided pieces until their roots grip the hardscape.

Common Challenges

The biggest pitfalls are rhizome rot from burial and very slow recovery after division because the white tissue produces little energy. Algae find the long-lived leaves an easy home, so balance light carefully and keep flow gentle.