Anubias barteri caladiifolia: Care and Planting Guide
By Pro Shrimp | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to care for Anubias barteri caladiifolia, a low-light rhizome plant perfect for beginners. Get planting steps, common mistakes, and tips for healthy growth.
Quick answer
For healthy Anubias barteri caladiifolia, attach the rhizome to hardscape or substrate, keep it in low to medium light, and avoid burying the rhizome to prevent rot.
Why this Anubias is ideal for low-light tanks
Anubias barteri caladiifolia is a slow-growing rhizome plant that thrives in low-light conditions, making it a forgiving choice for beginners. Its heart-shaped leaves can live for several years, so once established, the plant maintains its appearance with minimal intervention.
Because it grows slowly, it won't quickly overrun your aquascape. However, this also means algae can settle on older leaves, so keep the tank clean and avoid prolonged bright light.
Trade-off: slow growth vs. group formation
While Anubias barteri caladiifolia grows slowly, it can eventually form large groups. In fact, a single plant can spread over 50 cm wide within a few years. This makes it a great background or midground plant if you're patient.
The trade-off is that you won't see quick results. If you need instant coverage, consider faster-growing plants, but for a low-maintenance, long-term addition, this Anubias is hard to beat.
Step-by-step planting and care guide
- Choose the right spot: Place the plant in a low to medium light area of the aquarium. Avoid direct intense light to prevent algae growth on the leaves. Check that the spot is not directly under a strong light source.
- Attach the rhizome: Use aquarium-safe glue or thread to attach the rhizome to driftwood, rock, or other hardscape. Do not bury the rhizome in substrate, as this can cause rot. Ensure the rhizome is fully exposed to water flow.
- Monitor water parameters: Keep water temperature between 72-82°F (22-28°C) and pH between 6.0-7.5. Anubias is hardy but stable conditions promote growth. Test water weekly and avoid sudden changes.
- Fertilize sparingly: Anubias is not a heavy feeder. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a week or root tabs near the roots if planted in substrate. Over-fertilizing can promote algae. Start with half the recommended dose and observe plant response.
- Prune old leaves: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves by cutting them at the base with scissors. This encourages new growth and keeps the plant tidy. Do not remove more than one-third of the leaves at once.
Product spotlight
- Anubias barteri caladiifolia Tropica (Single Package): Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia originates from an Australian tissue propagation laboratory and features heart-shaped leaves that live for several years. Tissue-cultured plants are typically free of pests and algae, giving you a clean start, and the long-lived leaves mean less frequent replacement.
Anubias barteri caladiifolia Tropica (Single Package)
