Anubias Nana Petite – Low Light Nano Aquarium Plant
Anubias Nana Petite is one of the smallest Anubias varieties available, known for its tiny dark green leaves and ultra-compact growth habit. Also known as Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Petite’, this miniature rhizome plant is ideal for nano aquariums, shrimp tanks, foreground placement, and detailed freshwater aquascapes.
Like other Anubias varieties, Anubias Nana Petite is extremely hardy, slow-growing, and easy to care for. It thrives in low to moderate lighting, does not require CO2, and should be attached to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor rather than buried directly in substrate.
Key Features
- Tiny dark green leaves with ultra-compact growth
- One of the smallest Anubias aquarium plants
- Excellent low-light rhizome plant
- Great for nano tanks, shrimp tanks, and foreground placement
- Best attached to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor
- Hardy, beginner-friendly, and low maintenance
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Petite’
- Common Name: Anubias Nana Petite, Anubias Petite
- Plant Type: Rhizome aquarium plant
- Placement: Foreground, nano aquascapes, or attached to hardscape
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Temperature: 72–82°F
- pH: 6.0–7.8
- Hardness: Soft to moderate
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Care Level: Easy
- CO2: Not required; optional for enhanced growth
- Substrate: Not required; attach to driftwood, rock, or decor
Tank Placement
Anubias Nana Petite works best in the foreground of freshwater aquariums or attached directly to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor. Its miniature size makes it perfect for nano tanks, shrimp aquariums, and detailed aquascapes where larger plants would overpower the layout.
Do not bury the rhizome in substrate. Attach the plant using aquarium-safe glue, thread, or fishing line. The roots may grow down and anchor over time, but the rhizome should remain exposed to prevent rot.
Lighting, CO2 & Nutrients
Anubias Nana Petite thrives in low to moderate lighting, making it an excellent choice for low-tech aquariums and shaded aquascape areas. Because it grows slowly, moderate lighting is usually best to help reduce algae buildup on the leaves.
CO2 is not required for Anubias Nana Petite. This plant grows well in simple aquarium setups with stable water conditions. Occasional liquid fertilizer can help support healthy dark green leaves, stronger roots, and steady growth.
Trimming & Maintenance
Anubias Nana Petite is very low maintenance and does not require frequent trimming. Remove older, damaged, yellowing, or algae-covered leaves near the base of the plant to keep it clean and healthy.
Because it grows slowly, avoid frequent relocation once attached. Keep the rhizome exposed, avoid excessive lighting, and provide gentle water flow to help reduce debris and algae buildup on the leaves.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Nano freshwater aquariums
- Shrimp tanks and fry cover
- Foreground aquascape placement
- Low-light planted tanks
- Driftwood and rock layouts
- Low-tech aquarium setups
- Detailed aquascapes and small planted tanks
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anubias Nana Petite beginner-friendly?
Yes. Anubias Nana Petite is extremely hardy, easy to care for, and ideal for beginner planted aquariums.
Can Anubias Nana Petite grow in low light?
Yes. Anubias Nana Petite thrives in low to moderate lighting and is a great choice for shaded areas and low-tech aquarium setups.
Should I plant Anubias Nana Petite in substrate?
No. Do not bury the rhizome. Attach Anubias Nana Petite to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor and keep the rhizome exposed.
How large does Anubias Nana Petite grow?
Anubias Nana Petite typically stays around 1–2 inches tall depending on aquarium conditions and time to establish.
Does Anubias Nana Petite need CO2?
No. CO2 is not required. Optional CO2 may improve growth slightly, but this plant grows well in low-tech aquariums.
Is Anubias Nana Petite safe for shrimp and snails?
Yes. Anubias Nana Petite is safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish. Its leaves also provide grazing surfaces and cover for shrimp.
How do I propagate Anubias Nana Petite?
Anubias Nana Petite can be propagated by carefully dividing the rhizome into healthy sections, making sure each section has leaves and roots.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Anubias Nana Petite is a tiny, low-light aquarium plant for aquarists looking to add compact dark green texture, easy-care structure, and detailed foreground growth to freshwater planted tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, and aquarium supplies.
Explore More Aquarium Products:
Low stock: 1 left
Couldn't load pickup availability

Explore Related Aquarium Products: