Anubias gigantea

Anubias gigantea is the true giant of the Anubias genus, producing the largest leaves of any commonly cultivated Anubias species. Native to tropical West and Central Africa, it grows along shaded riverbanks and stream edges in humid forest environments. In the aquarium, individual leaves can reach 30–40 cm in length and 15–20 cm in width on mature, well-established plants, arising from a massive, thick rhizome that creeps steadily along driftwood or substrate. The leaves are broadly oval to somewhat arrow-shaped, deep green, glossy, and very leathery, supported by thick petioles that give the plant a commanding, architectural presence in the tank. The sheer physical mass and leaf toughness of Anubias gigantea makes it uniquely suited to tanks housing large or aggressive fish — large cichlids including Oscars, Flowerhorns, large plecos, and other tank busters that would destroy any softer-leaved plant find Anubias gigantea leaves almost indestructible. The plant makes a powerful structural statement as a background or midground anchor in tanks 200 liters and above, where its scale is proportional to the overall aquascape. Like all Anubias species, it is an epiphyte that grows best when the rhizome is attached to or propped against driftwood and rock, with roots spreading freely in the water or anchoring into the substrate. CO2 and high light are not required; the plant thrives under standard tropical aquarium lighting. Given its large size and slow growth, Anubias gigantea requires patience — established specimens that have been growing for several years become spectacular specimens with many overlapping, impressive leaves.

Water Parameters Anubias gigantea tolerates the same broad range as all Anubias: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 20–28 °C. It adapts to soft or moderately hard water. Stable parameters support steady, healthy rhizome growth.

Lighting Low to moderate light (20–70 µmol) is ideal. Given its large leaf surface area, high light accelerates green spot and black beard algae accumulation on leaves. Position toward the shaded rear of the tank or beneath surface plants.

Tank Size A minimum tank of 100 liters is recommended, with 150–200 liters or more providing room for the plant to reach its full potential size without overwhelming the aquascape. In smaller tanks, the scale becomes disproportionate quickly.

Planting Method Position the thick rhizome against a large piece of driftwood or between rocks. Use cable ties or thick rubber bands initially to secure it; after 6–8 weeks the roots will grip firmly. In large cichlid tanks, wedging the rhizome firmly between large rocks prevents displacement by digging fish.

CO2 and Fertilization Not required, but a twice-weekly dose of comprehensive liquid fertilizer supports the higher nutrient demands of this large-leaved species compared to smaller Anubias. Root tabs placed near the root zone also benefit established plants.

Maintenance Prune yellowed or algae-covered leaves at the petiole base. Due to large leaf size and surface area, spot-clean heavily affected leaves with a soft brush during water changes. The slow growth means pruning is infrequent.

Compatibility Ideal for cichlid display tanks, large predator aquariums, and biotope setups requiring robust, indestructible vegetation. Pairs beautifully with large Java Fern and Bolbitis.