Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

It is a taller species, best suited for the midground or background of the aquarium. It should be attached to large pieces of wood or rocks. The rhizome must not be buried in the substrate to prevent rot.

Botanical form

Rhizome

It features elongated, smooth, and upright dark green leaves that resemble small spearheads. The thick rhizome produces a robust root system for strong anchoring. It grows significantly taller than the popular nana varieties.

Growth

Slow

This plant exhibits a very slow growth rate, typical of the genus. It produces new leaves infrequently, making it very low maintenance. Additional CO2 is not necessary but can slightly improve growth.

Substrate

None

Anubias congensis possesses a robust, creeping rhizome that demands exposure to open water rather than burial in a nutrient-rich soil. To prevent suffocation and rotting, this impressive plant should be firmly attached to coarse hardscape where its strong roots can weave into crevices for stability. Although it can tolerate having its longest roots extending into an inert gravel or sand bed, the core rhizome must remain strictly above the substrate level. Because it absorbs essential minerals almost entirely through its leaves and exposed root surface, the composition and depth of the underlying substrate are irrelevant to its health.

Column fertilization

Recommended

Nutrients are primarily absorbed from the water column through the leaves and exposed roots. Occasional dosing of a comprehensive liquid fertilizer keeps the plant healthy. Potassium and iron are beneficial for maintaining leaf coloration.

Root fertilization

None

Root tabs are not required since the plant's roots should not be buried. The strong root system is mainly for gripping hardscape surfaces. It relies on nutrients present in the water rather than the soil.

Trimming

Occasional

Pruning is rarely needed due to its slow, steady growth. When necessary, use sharp scissors to cut older or damaged leaves near the base of the rhizome. This helps the plant focus energy on healthy growth.

Propagation

Rhizome division

Propagation is done by dividing the creeping rhizome into smaller sections. Make sure each section has at least three healthy leaves and some roots. Attach the new sections to hardscape materials to grow independently.

Sensitivity

Moderate

It is highly sensitive to having its rhizome buried in the substrate, which causes it to die. Due to its slow growth, it is also prone to spot algae under intense light. Keep it in shaded areas to reduce algae risk.

Layout role

Midground, Background

Its upright, sword-like leaves provide excellent vertical lines and contrast in aquascapes. It works well as a background plant in smaller tanks or midground in larger ones. It adds a mature, wild look to the layout.