Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Background

It is perfectly suited for attachment to large pieces of wood or stone in the background or midground. The rhizome must always be kept unburied to ensure proper oxygen flow and prevent rot. Its unique leaf shape makes it an excellent centerpiece in shaded areas.

Botanical form

Rhizome

It produces uniquely shaped, hastate or spear-like leaves that are highly distinctive among Anubias species. The robust and thick rhizome creeps slowly along the mounting surface. Its dark, leathery foliage can withstand the attention of herbivorous fish and active invertebrates.

Growth

Slow

This species exhibits an exceptionally slow growth rate, producing perhaps only one leaf per month under standard conditions. The leisurely pace minimizes trimming requirements but demands patience from the aquarist. Providing a stable environment without abrupt changes is key to consistent growth.

Substrate

None

Pynaert's Anubias is a classic epiphyte that performs best when tied or glued to hardscape elements. Its thick rhizome should never be buried in gravel or soil, as this will quickly lead to decay and plant death. Over time, its robust root system will grip onto wood or porous rocks, securing the plant against water flow. Because it is highly efficient at drawing nutrients from the water, it requires no specialized aqua soil or root tabs.

Column fertilization

Optional

A light but consistent dosing of liquid fertilizer provides all the necessary elements for this epiphyte. Since it is a slow grower, it does not quickly exhaust water column nutrients. Focus on providing trace elements to enhance the deep green coloration of its leaves.

Root fertilization

None

Supplemental root fertilization is completely redundant since this plant operates primarily as an epiphyte. The roots serve mostly as anchors rather than primary nutrient transport channels. Ensure the water column is well-maintained instead of worrying about substrate fertility.

Trimming

Occasional

Maintenance is practically zero, consisting only of the occasional removal of dying or heavily algae-infested leaves. When removing a leaf, make a clean cut near the rhizome to avoid damaging the main plant body. Avoid frequent disturbance, as the plant prefers a settled environment to thrive.

Propagation

Division

To propagate, simply sever a healthy portion of the rhizome using a sharp, clean blade. The cutting should ideally have roots and a few healthy leaves to ensure a smooth transition. Attach the new segment to a piece of hardscape using thread or specialized plant glue.

Sensitivity

LOW

It is highly resilient to varying water parameters but incredibly sensitive to intense lighting, which guarantees algae problems. The rhizome is prone to rotting if it is restricted from water flow or buried in sand or soil. It is unpalatable to most herbivorous fish due to its tough leaf structure.

Layout role

Background, Midground

Its dramatic, spear-shaped leaves make it a stunning architectural element in the aquascape. It functions well as a bold focal point or to break up the texture of stem plant groupings. In larger tanks, it adds a touch of the exotic when placed prominently on a tall piece of driftwood.