DIFFICULTY Easy

A forgiving choice for newer planted tanks.

LIGHT Low

Around 7 hours is a useful starting point.

CO₂ Optional

Injection is not normally necessary.

GROWTH Slow

Low trimming needs.

PLANT OVERVIEW

About anubias-nana

A slow-growing, hardy rhizome plant that works well in low-light and low-tech freshwater aquariums.

Anubias nana is a compact rhizome plant commonly attached to rocks and driftwood. Its thick leaves and forgiving nature make it useful for beginner and low-tech planted tanks.
Shrimp friendly Nano suitable Low-tech suitable High-tech suitable
CARE PROFILE

What this plant needs.

The useful numbers and practical notes, grouped around how you actually keep the plant.

TANK FIT

Placement + size

Primary placementMidground
Typical height2–6 in
Typical width5 in
Suggested minimum tank5 gal
LIGHT + CO₂

Energy demand

Ideal lightLow
Photoperiod range6–8 hr
Approx. PAR20–60
Injected CO₂Optional
CO₂ benefitLow
NUTRITION

Where it feeds

Root feedingVery Low
Water-column feedingHigh
Overall fertilizer demandLow
Iron demandLow
MicronutrientsModerate
WATER

Useful parameter range

Temperature68–82°F
pH6–8
GH2–15 dGH
KH1–12 dKH
PLANTING

How to plant it.

Substrate: Any; rhizome should remain exposed
Hardscape: Can be attached to rock or wood.
Do not bury the rhizome. Keep the rhizome exposed to reduce the risk of rot.

Attach the rhizome to rock or driftwood. If roots are placed in substrate, keep the rhizome exposed.

GROWTH + PROPAGATION

What to expect after planting.

Propagation

Divide the rhizome while keeping healthy leaves and roots on each section.

Acclimation

Usually adapts well; older leaves may be replaced slowly after a major environment change.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What usually goes wrong.

Algae can accumulate on older leaves. Burying the rhizome can cause rot. Growth is naturally slow.