Anubias Nana Short
Anubias Nana Short is a compact-growing freshwater aquarium rhizome plant known for its shorter stems, tightly spaced dark green leaves, and hardy nature. Also known as Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Short’, this attractive Anubias variety offers the durability of classic Anubias nana while staying lower and more compact in the aquarium.
This slow-growing, low-maintenance plant is ideal for foreground to midground placement, nano aquariums, shrimp tanks, and peaceful community setups. Like other Anubias varieties, Anubias Nana Short 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
- Compact Anubias variety with short dark green leaves
- Low-growing foreground to midground aquarium plant
- Excellent low-light rhizome plant
- Best attached to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor
- Slow-growing and very low maintenance
- Safe for shrimp, snails, community fish, and many cichlid setups
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Short’
- Common Name: Anubias Nana Short
- Plant Type: Rhizome aquarium plant
- Placement: Foreground to midground, 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 Short works well in the foreground to midground of freshwater aquariums or attached directly to aquarium hardscape. Its compact profile makes it useful for adding dark green structure around driftwood, rocks, caves, and detailed aquascape layouts without overpowering smaller tanks.
Do not bury the rhizome in substrate. Attach the plant to driftwood, rocks, or decor 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 Short thrives in low to moderate lighting, making it an excellent choice for low-tech freshwater 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 Short. 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 Short 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 this is a slow-growing rhizome plant, avoid frequent relocation once attached. Keep the rhizome exposed, avoid excessive lighting, and provide gentle water flow to help prevent debris and algae buildup on the leaves.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Low-light planted aquariums
- Low-tech freshwater tanks
- Foreground to midground aquascapes
- Nano aquariums and small planted tanks
- Driftwood and rock layouts
- Shrimp tanks and fry cover
- Peaceful community aquariums and protected cichlid setups
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anubias Nana Short beginner-friendly?
Yes. Anubias Nana Short is extremely hardy, easy to grow, and a great choice for beginner planted aquariums.
Can Anubias Nana Short grow in low light?
Yes. This plant thrives in low to moderate lighting and works well in low-tech aquariums and shaded aquascape areas.
Should I plant Anubias Nana Short in substrate?
No. Do not bury the rhizome. Attach Anubias Nana Short to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor and keep the rhizome exposed.
How large does Anubias Nana Short grow?
Anubias Nana Short typically grows around 3–5 inches tall depending on aquarium conditions and time to establish.
Does Anubias Nana Short 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 Short safe for shrimp and snails?
Yes. Anubias Nana Short is safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish. Its sturdy leaves also provide grazing surfaces and cover.
How do I propagate Anubias Nana Short?
Anubias Nana Short 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 Short is a hardy, low-light aquarium plant for aquarists looking to add compact dark green leaves, easy-care structure, and natural hardscape detail 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.
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