Arrowhead Anubias

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to West Africa, where it grows in shaded forest streams and riverbanks. It often grows semi-submerged, anchored to rocks, roots, or logs in humid environments.

Taxonomy & Genetics: Belongs to the Araceae family and Anubias genus. Highly robust and tough structure, developed to survive dry seasons emersed and wet seasons submerged.

Physical Structure: Features unique arrowhead-shaped leaf blades (hence the name hastifolia) attached to long, sturdy petioles. The main plant body consists of a thick horizontal rhizome.

Color & Texture: The leaves are dark green and matte with a very thick, leathery texture, making the plant virtually indestructible and safe from herbivorous fish.

Lighting & CO2: Low to moderate light demand. High light levels will cause slow growth of nuisance hair or brush algae on the leaves. CO2 injection is not required but optional.

Nutrition & Substrate: Does not need a nutrient-rich substrate. The rhizome must be attached to driftwood or rocks. If buried in the gravel or sand, the rhizome will rot.

Water Chemistry: Adaptable to a wide range of parameters. Ideal temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5. Prefers clean water with moderate circulation.

Space Management & Placement: Best suited for the midground or background of medium to large aquariums due to its height. Place in shaded areas of the tank.

Pruning: Grows very slowly. Prune old, decaying, or algae-covered leaves by cutting the petiole close to the rhizome using sharp scissors.

Risks & Diseases: Main risk is rhizome rot if buried. It is also prone to green spot or black brush algae growth on leaves if exposed to high light.