More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | no |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Plant Colors | light green, medium green, dark green |
| Temperature Tolerance | 12°C / 53.60°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-21 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 5-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
The Anubias barteri var. nana 'Petite' ('Bonsai') is the smallest Anubias variety available commercially, originating from Cameroon or selected from cultivated plants. This plant is often referred to as a "growing plastic plant" due to its hardiness and slow growth. It features light to medium green ovate leaves that can last for several years, with a distinct upward-growing rhizome and compact, rosulate growth pattern.
Aquarium Suitability
Highly suitable for aquariums, this plant is very easy to care for and thrives in a wide range of light intensities (0.25 to over 1 watt per liter) without the need for CO2 supplementation. Although it does not flower in aquariums like its ancestral form, it can bloom under high phosphate concentrations. Regular fertilization with iron and micronutrients helps prevent green spot algae growth.
Demands and Hardiness
With a slow growth rate, 'Petite' can withstand temperatures between 22-26°C and a broad pH range of 5-8. It adapts well to varying carbonate hardness levels (0-21 dKH) and nitrate concentrations (10-50 mg/l). This plant is not winter-hardy and is unsuitable for outdoor use in colder climates.
Aquascaping & Usage
Ideal for accentuating the midground in nano or small aquascapes, 'Petite' can also be placed towards the front in larger tanks. It serves as an excellent epiphyte, attaching its roots to rocks or driftwood, and can be fastened using nylon threads initially. 'Petite' is cichlid-proof and makes a great foreground or group plant.
Propagation
Propagation of Anubias barteri var. nana 'Petite' is simple; just cut the rhizome into multiple pieces depending on the plant size. It can be split or daughter plants can be cut off to grow new specimens.
Habitat and Distribution
The exact origin of this plant is somewhat unclear, with sources pointing to Cameroon or originating as a mutation in Singapore. Found in natural habitats or cultivated environments, 'Petite' thrives in aquatic settings with its unique adaptability and minimal care requirements.