Bucephalandra Kedagang care guide
Bucephalandra Kedagang (Bucephalandra sp. 'Kedagang') — low light, 22-28 °C, pH 5.5-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
Bucephalandra Kedagang (Bucephalandra sp. 'Kedagang') is an aquatic plant of the family Araceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. It is typically grown under low light and without obligatory CO2 injection on any substrate. One of the most popular Bucephalandra varieties with narrow dark-green leaves featuring striking iridescent blue-green shimmer and wavy edges. Grows slowly attached to hardscape and produces small white flowers underwater, adding a miniature jewel-like quality to any tank.
Taxonomy
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Bucephalandra
- Scientific name: Bucephalandra sp. 'Kedagang'
- Common synonyms: Buce Kedagang
Habitat
Bucephalandra is a genus of rheophytic aroids endemic to Borneo, where the plants cling to rocks in fast-flowing, shaded, soft-water rainforest streams. Many local forms have been collected and propagated by aquarists in recent decades. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from Borneo.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: low
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Substrate: any
- Maximum height: 10 cm
- Growth rate: slow
- Recommended placement: epiphyte on wood or rock
Placement
Attached to wood or rock with thread or cyanoacrylate gel; like Anubias, the rhizome must not be buried. Soft to moderately hard water and stable, gentle flow promote dense compact growth. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground as an epiphyte on hardscape under low light and without obligatory CO2 injection, using any substrate.
Propagation
Multiplies by rhizome division and by lateral shoots; detached pieces with one or two leaves and a root tuft re-attach reliably to new hardscape. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: rhizome division.
Common issues
Sudden environmental changes can trigger a stress response called Bucephalandra meltdown — leaves dissolve while the rhizome remains viable and re-leafs over weeks. Slow acclimation and stable parameters prevent it.