Anubias gigantea – The Gentle Giant of the Aquascape 🌿🏞️

Scientific Name: Anubias gigantea
Category: Aquatic Plants (Rhizome Plant)

🌿 Big, Bold, and Beautifully Unbothered

Towering above its smaller cousins, the Anubias gigantea is the ultimate statement piece for your aquascape. Native to the slow-moving rivers and shaded shallows of West Africa, this plant earns its name with massive, leathery leaves that can stretch over 12 inches long. It’s a plant that radiates ancient jungle energy—majestic, slow-growing, and nearly indestructible.

Despite its size, Anubias gigantea is wonderfully low-maintenance. It thrives when attached to driftwood, stone, or other hardscape, rather than buried in substrate. Its sturdy rhizome and broad leaves make it a favorite perch for shrimp and small fish, while its deep green foliage adds a lush, natural canopy effect to any aquarium.

🔍 What to Expect:

• Leaf Shape: Long, lanceolate, and slightly rippled

• Leaf Size: 8–12 inches (20–30 cm)

• Height: Up to 16–18 inches when mature

• Growth Rate: Very slow and steady

• Ideal Placement: Background or as a centerpiece

💧 Care & Conditions:

• Light: Low to medium (too much light can cause algae buildup)

• Temp: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.8

• CO₂: Not required

• Substrate: None—attach to rock or wood

• Trimming: Minimal; remove older leaves near the rhizome

✅ Why You’ll Love It:

• Perfect for large or feature aquascapes

• Hardy and tolerant of a wide range of conditions

• Excellent for shrimp and peaceful community tanks

• Adds a lush, natural “riverbank” look

• Resistant to grazing fish and algae growth on thick leaves

🎁 Bonus Tip:

Never bury the rhizome! Keep it above the substrate and tied to rock or driftwood with thread or glue—it’ll reward you with slow, majestic growth and long-lasting beauty. 🌊🪨