Description
Plant Profile
Anubias Butterfly is for aquascapers seeking graceful foliage among Anubias aquarium plants. If your aquascape is looking a little too harsh with jagged lava rock or sharp driftwood, this unique aquatic epiphyte is ready to spread its wings and save the day! Diverging from standard round-leaved varieties like Anubias Barteri or Anubias Nana, it features smooth, glossy green leaves uniquely shaped like fluttering butterfly wings. Capable of stretching up to 16 inches tall, this versatile species functions as a midground centerpiece or a lush background anchor in low-tech aquariums, terrariums, and paludariums without requiring intense light or CO₂ injection.
Key Features & Benefits
Tall height allows it to function as a midground centerpiece or transition into a full background canopy.
Thick, durable leaves deter grazing from plant-eating cichlids, snails, and dwarf shrimp.
Resilient nature handles a wide range of water parameters in low-tech setups.
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. ‘Butterfly’
Common Name(s)
Anubias Butterfly, Butterfly 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
8 – 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 / Cultivar
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I plant Anubias Butterfly?
Attach the plant directly to driftwood or rocks using aquarium-safe super glue gel, thread, or fishing line. Keep the rhizome above the substrate to prevent rot.
2. Does it require CO2 or high lighting?
No. It is a classic low-light plant that thrives without specialized CO2 equipment. While added CO2 will speed up growth and foliage density, it thrives happily in low-tech aquariums.
3. Is this plant safe for shrimp, snails, and fish?
Yes, Anubias Butterfly is 100% safe for all freshwater fish, shrimp (including sensitive Caridina and Neocaridina), and snails. Its tough leaves are also resistant to plant-eating fish like cichlids or goldfish.
