Anubias Nana Petite (Anubias barteri var. nana 'Petite') is the smallest and most coveted variety in the Anubias family. With its miniature dark green leaves measuring less than half an inch across, this dwarf cultivar is the perfect choice for nano aquariums, foreground placement, and detailed aquascaping work. Originally cultivated by Oriental Aquarium in Singapore, Anubias Nana Petite combines the legendary durability of its parent species with a refined, scaled-down appearance ideal for shrimp tanks and intricate layouts. Whether attached to driftwood, rockwork, or used as a foreground accent, this stunning miniature plant elevates any aquascape with its compact elegance.
Common Name: Anubias Nana Petite, Dwarf Anubias Petite
Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana 'Petite'
Origin: Cultivated variety (parent species from West Africa)
Placement: Foreground, Midground, Hardscape Attachment
Maximum Height: 2–3 inches
Growth Rate: Very Slow
Care Level: Very Easy
Lighting Requirements: Low to Medium
CO2 Requirements: Not required
Temperature: 72–82°F
pH Range: 6.0–7.5
Anubias Nana Petite is one of the few cultivated plants whose origin is reliably documented in the modern aquarium hobby.
Anubias Nana Petite has earned a premium spot in the aquascaping world because of its miniature size, exceptional hardiness, and unmatched suitability for small-scale layouts.
Benefits of Anubias Nana Petite include:
Ideal proportions for nano and pico tanks
Extremely hardy and beginner-friendly
Thrives without CO2 or special substrate
Attaches to driftwood, rocks, and decorations
Compatible with shrimp tanks and community aquariums
Resistant to being eaten by herbivorous fish
Anubias Nana Petite prefers low to medium aquarium lighting. Strong direct lighting often promotes algae growth on the slow-growing leaves.
For best results:
Use low to medium planted tank lighting
Provide 6–8 hours of light daily
Avoid direct, concentrated bright spots
Position to allow shade from taller plants
CO2 injection is not required and is rarely needed. The plant grows extremely slowly regardless of CO2 levels.
Steady, very slow growth
Excellent for low-tech tanks
Minimal maintenance requirements
Slightly faster leaf production
Improved color and rhizome health
Marginal overall benefit
Anubias Nana Petite absorbs nutrients through its rhizome and leaves. The dark horizontal rhizome must NEVER be buried in substrate.
Recommended attachment methods include:
Tying to driftwood with thread or fishing line
Gluing to rocks with aquarium-safe super glue gel
Wedging into small rock crevices
Attaching to decorations
The rhizome will rot if buried in substrate, killing the plant.
To plant Anubias Nana Petite successfully:
Position the rhizome flat against the chosen hardscape surface
Secure with cotton thread, fishing line, or super glue gel
Ensure the rhizome remains fully exposed to water
Place in moderate-flow areas
Allow several weeks for natural rhizoid attachment
After 4–8 weeks, the plant anchors itself permanently and binding material can be removed.
Anubias Nana Petite requires minimal maintenance and is one of the most low-effort plants in the hobby.
Maintenance tips:
Remove yellowed or damaged leaves at the rhizome
Wipe algae from leaves gently with fingers during water changes
Dose comprehensive liquid fertilizer occasionally
Divide rhizomes when they grow long enough to separate
The plant's slow growth means it rarely outgrows its space.
Anubias Nana Petite is compatible with nearly any peaceful freshwater species and is especially popular in shrimp tanks.
Compatible tank mates include:
Cherry Shrimp, Crystal Shrimp, and Amano Shrimp
Tetras, Rasboras, and Danios
Bettas (excellent for betta tanks)
Angelfish and Discus
Corydoras Catfish
Otocinclus
Most herbivorous fish avoid Anubias due to its tough, slightly bitter leaves.
The most common issue, caused by slow leaf growth combined with strong lighting. Reduce light intensity and wipe leaves clean during maintenance.
Caused by burying the rhizome in substrate. Lift the plant and attach to hardscape immediately.
Can indicate nutrient deficiency. Add comprehensive liquid fertilizer.
Anubias Nana Petite is naturally extremely slow-growing. Patience is essential.
Anubias Nana Petite is the ultimate dwarf aquarium plant, combining the legendary hardiness of the Anubias genus with a perfectly scaled-down size for nano tanks and detailed aquascaping. Its miniature leaves, slow growth, and undemanding nature make it ideal for shrimp tanks, betta aquariums, and intricate hardscape arrangements. With proper attachment to hardscape and gentle care, Anubias Nana Petite will reward you with years of compact, beautiful, almost-effortless growth.
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