Propagating Bucephalandra 'Tia Tia'

How to propagate the nano Bucephalandra 'Tia Tia' cultivar by rhizome division, attaching pieces to hardscape and managing the typical melt-then-regrow cycle.

Overview

Bucephalandra is a genus of rheophytic herbs whose 30 described species are all endemic to Borneo, where they grow as dense mats over stones and rocks in streams and rivers within moist tropical forest. The plants have creeping, rooting stems, and the genus is characterised by slow growth, which sets it apart from faster aquatic plants.

The 'Tia Tia' cultivar is a dwarf, epiphytic selection prized in nano aquascaping. Because it spreads along a horizontal rhizome rather than rooting freely in substrate, it is propagated the same way as the genus as a whole: by dividing that rhizome.

Propagation Method

The primary and easiest method is rhizome division. The rhizome is the horizontal trunk-like stem from which both roots and leaves emerge, and nutrients are stored within it. Each division is a section of rhizome that already carries its own leaves and roots, so it can resume growth as an independent plant once secured to hardscape.

Step-by-Step

1. Choose a healthy parent plant and locate a natural bend in the rhizome where the foliage has begun to form separate clumps.
2. Using clean, sharp scissors, cut the rhizome into two pieces, ensuring each piece keeps several leaves and roots.
3. Attach the new division to a rock or piece of driftwood with super glue gel, or tie it on with sewing thread.
4. Alternatively, wedge the piece into a crack between rocks so the rhizome stays exposed.
5. Leave the division in place; it will continue growing as a second, independent plant.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

As a rheophyte from shaded tropical streams, 'Tia Tia' tolerates a wide range of conditions and does not require strong light or added CO2. Stable water with gentle to moderate flow suits it well, mirroring the stream and river habitat of the genus.

Maintenance

Because nutrients are stored in the rhizome, never discard a piece that has lost leaves. As long as the rhizome looks healthy, leave it in the aquarium and it will push out new shoots that develop into leaves and roots. Given the slow growth rate, give each division time before judging its progress.

Common Challenges

Most farms grow Bucephalandra emersed, so when a newly submerged plant adjusts some leaves may melt. This is normal: keep the healthy rhizome in the tank and it will regrow. The main fatal mistake is burying the rhizome, which causes the plant to rot.