Anubias barteri var. nana 'Bonsai'

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Bonsai' is named for the aesthetic it creates when established on a small rock or piece of driftwood — a miniature tree-like structure with dense clusters of small, dark-green leaves on a gnarly, compact rhizome. It grows even more slowly than standard nana, making it one of the lowest-maintenance Anubias cultivars available, capable of remaining as a defined focal piece for many months without adjustment.

The dense rhizome branching pattern is the key visual appeal of this cultivar: rather than producing a long, single horizontal rhizome, 'Bonsai' tends to branch repeatedly, creating a bushy, multi-directional growth habit. Mounted on a suitable stone it genuinely evokes the aesthetic of a miniature tree anchored in rock.

Care is identical to other Anubias — no CO2 required, low-light tolerant, wide water parameter range. It is an excellent choice for paludariums and emersed setups as well as fully submerged aquariums.

Light: low light is ideal; the slow growth rate means algae is a greater risk than light deficiency. CO2: not required; this cultivar grows well without CO2 supplementation. Fertilisation: very light liquid fertiliser application monthly; excess nutrients invite algae on the slow-growing leaves. Placement: mount on a single striking stone or small piece of driftwood to showcase the bonsai-like rhizome structure. Propagation: carefully detach side branches of the rhizome with a sharp blade; each branch needs 2–3 leaves to re-establish.