Anubias gigantea

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Background

Due to its massive size, it is exclusively a background or centerpiece plant for very large aquariums. It should be tied or glued to heavy hardscape materials. Never bury the large rhizome in the gravel.

Botanical form

Rhizome

It is one of the largest Anubias species, featuring massive, arrow-shaped, deep green leaves on long petioles. The very thick rhizome creeps slowly along surfaces. It is an imposing plant that commands attention.

Growth

Very slow

It grows extremely slowly, often taking months to produce a single large leaf. This makes it a permanent, low-maintenance fixture in the aquarium. Its slow growth means it will not quickly outgrow its space.

Substrate

None

Due to its massive size, Anubias gigantea develops a thick, formidable rhizome that must be grown purely as an epiphyte to ensure long-term survival. The plant secures its heavy foliage by wrapping extensive, cord-like roots around large pieces of bogwood or porous rock. Burying this plant in any type of substrate, including active aqua soil, will rapidly induce fatal rhizome rot by restricting crucial oxygen flow. The root system functions almost exclusively as a mechanical anchor, while all necessary macronutrients and micronutrients are extracted directly from the surrounding water column.

Column fertilization

Recommended

It feeds mainly from the water column using its leaves and adventitious roots. A basic liquid fertilizer program is sufficient for its health. Trace elements like iron help maintain its deep green hue.

Root fertilization

None

Root tabs are useless as the roots function purely as holdfasts on hardscape. The plant does not draw significant nutrients from the substrate. All feeding should be done via the water column.

Trimming

Occasional

Trimming is only necessary to remove dying, old, or algae-covered leaves. Always cut the long petiole cleanly near the rhizome using sharp tools. Its slow growth rate ensures pruning is a rare task.

Propagation

Rhizome division

Propagate by cutting the thick rhizome into sections, ensuring each piece has leaves and roots. A heavy-duty tool may be required due to the rhizome's thickness. Attach the sections securely to large rocks or wood.

Sensitivity

Moderate

The large, slow-growing leaves are magnets for spot algae if exposed to bright light. It is best grown in the shade of larger structures or floating plants. Burying the thick rhizome will cause it to rot.

Layout role

Midground, Background

It serves as a dramatic focal point or background anchor in large aquascapes. Its huge, distinct leaves provide a striking contrast to fine-leaved stem plants. It brings a prehistoric, jungle-like feel to the tank.