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Bucephalandra (Bucephalandra sp.)

Bucephalandra is a slow-growing Borneo epiphyte prized for its iridescent blue-green sheen and compact size. Care is nearly identical to Anubias: low light, no CO2 required, rhizome attached to hardscape — though CO2 and gentle flow deepen its color and speed up growth.

Care specifications

TypeRhizome
DifficultyEasy
LightLow (10–35 µmol PAR)
CO2Beneficial, not required
Fertilizer demandLow
Growth rateSlow
Max height4 in
Spread4 in
PlacementForeground, Midground, Epiphyte
Attaches to hardscapeYes
Snail & shrimp safeYes
Temperature71–82 °F
pH6–7.5
ColorVariegated
TrimmingMinimal
StylesNature, Biotope

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Bucephalandra

Bucephalandra Deep Blue

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Propagation

Cut the creeping rhizome into sections and attach each piece to stone or wood.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my Bucephalandra melting after planting?

Buce grown emersed (above water) often sheds its old leaves when first submerged. Leave the rhizome attached and undisturbed — new submerged-form leaves will emerge within a few weeks as long as the rhizome stays firm.

Does Bucephalandra need CO2?

No. It grows reliably in low-tech tanks without injection, just slowly. CO2 mainly improves leaf color and density rather than being a survival requirement.

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