Anubias nana on Small Wood - Anubias nana

Anubias nana on Small Wood – Anubias nana

Anubias nana on Small Wood is a hardy, easy-care freshwater aquarium plant attached to a natural piece of wood. With its attractive dark green leaves and compact growth, it makes a lovely addition to planted aquariums, shrimp tanks and community setups. Perfect for beginners, this slow-growing plant thrives in low to moderate lighting and does not require additional CO₂. Already attached to wood, it can be placed straight into your aquarium to create a natural-looking aquascape.

Key Identification

• Common Name: Anubias Nana on Small Wood

• Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana

• Plant Category: Epiphytic Aquarium Plants

• Plant Type: Rhizome / Attached Plant

• Placement: Foreground, Midground or Hardscape

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Care Level: Easy

Natural Origin & Habitat

Anubias nana originates from West Africa, where it naturally grows along shaded streams and rivers, often attached to rocks and wood. Its ability to grow in low-light conditions makes it ideal for a wide range of freshwater aquariums.

Appearance & Adult Size

This compact plant features thick, oval-shaped, dark green leaves that grow from a sturdy rhizome.

• Plant Height: Approximately 5–15 cm

• Leaf Colour: Dark Green

• Growth Habit: Compact and Bushy

• Growth Rate: Slow

Its natural wooden base makes it easy to position among rocks, gravel and other aquarium decorations.

Aquarium Suitability

Anubias nana on Small Wood is suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists. It works particularly well in community aquariums, nano tanks, shrimp aquariums and low-tech planted setups.

The plant requires very little maintenance and does not need nutrient-rich substrate or additional CO₂.

Recommended Aquarium Placement

Best Position: Foreground, Midground or Hardscape

Simply place the wood onto the aquarium substrate or among rocks and decorations.

The plant is already attached to the wood, so no additional planting is required.

Important: Do not bury the plant's rhizome beneath gravel or sand, as this can cause it to rot.

Water Conditions & Lighting

• Temperature: 22–28°C

• pH: 6.0–8.0

• Water Hardness: Soft to Hard

• Lighting: Low to Moderate

• CO₂: Not Required

• Fertilisation: Occasional liquid plant fertiliser is beneficial

• Substrate: Not Required

Anubias nana grows best in stable freshwater conditions. Avoid very strong lighting, as algae may develop on its slow-growing leaves.

Growth & Maintenance

Anubias nana is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal maintenance.

Occasionally remove damaged or ageing leaves and gently clean away any algae that develops on the foliage.

The plant will gradually grow new leaves and roots, becoming more established on the wood over time.

Compatibility With Fish & Invertebrates

This plant is suitable for most peaceful freshwater community aquariums, including those containing:

• Tetras and Rasboras

• Guppies and other peaceful livebearers

• Bettas and Dwarf Gouramis

• Corydoras Catfish

• Freshwater Shrimp

• Freshwater Snails

The leaves and wooden base provide useful grazing surfaces and shelter for small fish and shrimp.

Care Notes

• Keep the rhizome exposed and avoid burying it.

• Suitable for low-tech aquariums without CO₂ injection.

• Slow growth means frequent trimming is unnecessary.

• Excessive lighting may encourage algae on the leaves.

• Some older leaves may deteriorate while the plant adjusts to a new aquarium.

Further Information

Anubias nana on Small Wood is an excellent choice for adding natural greenery to freshwater aquariums without complicated plant care. Its compact size, hardy nature and attractive foliage make it particularly popular for aquascaping, shrimp tanks and beginner planted aquariums.

Image Disclaimer

Please Note: Images are for illustration purposes only. As this is a natural living plant attached to wood, the size, shape, leaf growth and appearance of the wood may vary from the product pictured. Each piece is unique.