Description
Plant Profile
For aquascapers looking to anchor large midground or background zones with sweeping green foliage, Anubias Barteri Broad Leaf delivers a dense canopy effect in low-maintenance aquariums. Taking everything hobbyists love about standard Anubias Barteri and doubling down, this grand cultivar produces broad, expansive leaves nearly twice the size of its parent species. Reaching 4 to 16 inches tall, this robust epiphyte creates an effortless canopy effect that softens heavy hardscape in medium and large planted tanks. Bulletproof and low-maintenance, it thrives in low-tech submerged aquariums or humid emersed setups like terrariums and paludariums.
Key Features & Benefits
Massive, broad leaf blades bring dramatic scale, making medium and large aquariums feel lush and mature.
Tall stem structure provides verticality for midground and background fill in larger hardscape layouts.
Thick, leathery foliage withstands nibbling from cichlids, goldfish, and active bottom-dwellers.
Resilient epiphyte nature handles a wide range of water parameters in low-tech setups with ease.
Care & Planting Instructions
Prep the plant by removing it from the pot and clearing all rockwool from the roots.
Attach to hardscape using aquarium‑safe glue or thread; keep the rhizome above substrate to prevent rot.
Maintain stable conditions to support smooth acclimation and reduce leaf loss.
Avoid intense light and ensure good water flow to prevent spot algae on slow‑growing leaves.
CO₂ is optional but improves growth speed and leaf density.
Learn more about planting these species by reading our guide on How to Plant Epiphyte Aquatic Plants.
Master long-term care and propagation with the article All About Anubias Aquarium Plants.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
Attribute
Specification
Scientific Name
Anubias barteri var. barteri
Common Name(s)
Anubias Barteri Broad Leaf, Broad Leaf Anubias, Anubias Plants
Family
Araceae
Plant Type / Taxonomy
Epiphyte (Rhizome)
Care Difficulty
Easy / Beginner-Friendly
Light Requirement
Low to Medium
CO2 Requirement
Not Required but Beneficial
Placement / Usage
Midground, Background
Height / Size
4 – 16 inches
Growth Rate
Slow (1 leaf every 3-4 weeks)
Water Parameters
pH 6.0 – 7.5 | Temperature 68°F – 82°F (20°C – 28°C)
Propagation Method
Separate by Rhizome Division
Origin
West Africa
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I plant Anubias Barteri Broad Leaf in a large tank?
Attach the rhizome directly to large driftwood or rock structures using aquarium-safe super glue gel, thread, or fishing line. Ensure the horizontal rhizome remains completely uncovered by substrate to prevent rotting. Its substantial root system will anchor firmly to hardscape over time.
2. Does Anubias Barteri Broad Leaf require CO2 or high lighting?
No, Anubias Barteri Broad Leaf thrives in low to moderate lighting without CO2 injection. Because its broad leaves create a dense canopy that grows slowly, keep it in an area with good water circulation and shaded light to prevent green spot algae from settling on the large leaf surfaces.
3. Is Anubias Barteri Broad Leaf safe for cichlids, goldfish, and shrimp?
Yes, Anubias Barteri Broad Leaf is 100% safe for all freshwater inhabitants. Thanks to its thick, leathery leaf construction, it is one of the best aquatic plants for notorious plant-eating or digging fish like Oscar cichlids, African cichlids, and goldfish.
