Anubias barteri Broad Leaf – Low Light Rhizome Aquarium Plant
Anubias barteri Broad Leaf is a classic freshwater aquarium plant known for its large, lush green leaves and hardy nature. This broad-leaf Anubias adds a bold, natural look to aquariums while staying easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginners, aquascapers, and low-tech planted tanks.
This durable rhizome plant grows best when attached to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor rather than buried in substrate. Anubias barteri Broad Leaf thrives in low to moderate lighting, does not require CO2, and works well in community aquariums, shrimp tanks, and tanks with fish that may graze around plants.
Key Features
- Large broad green leaves add bold structure
- Hardy and beginner-friendly aquarium plant
- Excellent low-light rhizome plant
- Great for attaching to driftwood, rocks, or decor
- Low maintenance and slow growing
- Safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Anubias barteri
- Common Name: Broad Leaf Anubias, Anubias barteri Broad Leaf
- Plant Type: Rhizome aquarium plant
- Placement: Midground or attached to hardscape
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Temperature: 72–82°F
- pH: 6.0–7.8
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
- Care Level: Easy
- CO2: Not required; optional for enhanced growth
- Substrate: Not required; attach to driftwood, rock, or decor
Tank Placement
Anubias barteri Broad Leaf works well as a midground plant or as an attached hardscape plant in freshwater aquariums. Its large green leaves create a strong focal point and add natural structure around driftwood, stone, caves, and aquarium decor.
This plant should not have its rhizome buried in substrate. Instead, attach it to driftwood or rock using aquarium-safe glue, thread, or fishing line. The roots may grow down into the substrate over time, but the thick rhizome should always remain exposed to prevent rot.
Lighting, CO2 & Nutrients
Anubias barteri Broad Leaf thrives in low to moderate lighting, making it an excellent choice for low-tech aquariums and shaded areas of planted tanks. Because it grows slowly, moderate lighting is often best to help reduce algae buildup on the leaves.
CO2 is not required for Anubias barteri Broad Leaf. This plant grows well in simple aquarium setups with stable water conditions. Occasional liquid fertilizer can help support healthy leaves and steady growth.
Trimming & Maintenance
Anubias barteri Broad Leaf is very low maintenance. Trim older, damaged, yellowing, or algae-covered leaves near the base of the stem to keep the plant looking clean and healthy.
Because it grows slowly, it does not need frequent trimming. Keep the rhizome exposed, avoid burying it in substrate, and place the plant in areas with gentle water movement to help prevent debris from settling on the broad leaves.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Low-light freshwater aquariums
- Beginner planted tanks
- Driftwood and rock aquascapes
- Midground aquarium placement
- Shrimp tanks and community aquariums
- Low-tech planted aquarium setups
- Natural-style aquascapes
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anubias barteri Broad Leaf easy to grow?
Yes. Anubias barteri Broad Leaf is one of the hardiest and easiest aquarium plants to grow, making it a great choice for beginners.
Can Anubias barteri Broad Leaf grow without CO2?
Yes. This plant does not require CO2 and grows well in low-tech freshwater aquariums.
Should Anubias barteri Broad Leaf be planted in substrate?
No. The rhizome should not be buried. Attach the plant to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor to prevent rhizome rot.
Is Anubias barteri Broad Leaf safe for shrimp and fish?
Yes. Anubias barteri Broad Leaf is safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish. Its broad leaves also provide cover and grazing surfaces.
How fast does Anubias barteri Broad Leaf grow?
Anubias barteri Broad Leaf grows slowly to moderately depending on lighting, nutrients, and aquarium conditions. Its slower growth makes it easy to maintain.
Why are algae growing on my Anubias leaves?
Algae can grow on Anubias leaves when lighting is too strong, flow is too low, or nutrients are unbalanced. Low to moderate lighting and stable maintenance can help reduce algae buildup.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Anubias barteri Broad Leaf is a hardy, low-light aquarium plant for aquarists looking to add bold green leaves, easy care, and natural structure to freshwater tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, and aquarium supplies.
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