Anubias gracilis

Anubias gracilis lives up to its name — it is the most graceful and elegant of the commonly available Anubias species, producing narrow, hastate-shaped leaves with distinctly elongated lobes on slender, long petioles that sway gently in aquarium flow. This movement gives the plant a liveliness unusual for the genus and makes it ideal for tanks with moderate circulation.

It originates from forest streams in Guinea and Ivory Coast and occupies an ecological niche similar to other rheophytic Anubias, growing on rocky substrates in flowing water. In the aquarium it performs best attached to mid-sized pieces of hardscape in midground or background positions where the swaying leaf habit is most visible.

Gracilis grows slightly faster than most Anubias under good conditions and is more tolerant of moderate light levels without significant algae problems. It is an excellent choice for aquascapers wanting a more dynamic, flowing aesthetic from the Anubias genus.

Light: low to moderate; tolerates a wider light range than most Anubias without significant algae issues. CO2: not required; optional CO2 promotes more frequent leaf production. Fertilisation: periodic liquid fertiliser dosing sufficient; this species benefits from moderate nutrient availability. Placement: midground or background on rocks or wood; position in moderate flow to showcase the swaying leaf petioles. Propagation: divide rhizome into sections with 2–3 leaves; the slender rhizome divides easily with a sharp blade.