Bucephalandra sp. 'Red Mini'

Bucephalandra sp. 'Red Mini' is a small, highly ornamental Bucephalandra variety prized for the striking combination of deep-green to blue-green iridescence on the upper leaf surface and rich red-to-purple colouration on the underside. New leaves often emerge with a reddish hue before maturing to the characteristic dark-green with iridescent overlay. The leaves are small, typically 2–3 cm, and produced on a compact, slowly creeping rhizome.

This variety is particularly popular for nano aquascapes and detailed foreground compositions in larger layouts. The red undersides are best appreciated in tanks where the plant is viewed from the front or from below, or in layouts where the small leaves catch light at varying angles. Like other Bucephalandra, it requires soft, slightly acidic water and attachment to hardscape. CO2 supplementation brings out the best colour expression and improves the very slow growth rate. It is an outstanding collector's plant.

Light: Low to medium; moderate, full-spectrum light best displays the red-purple leaf undersides and green iridescence. CO2: Recommended; CO2 significantly improves colour saturation and the iridescent quality of the leaves. Fertilisation: Bi-weekly dilute liquid micronutrients; iron supplementation is critical for maintaining the deep red and green tones. Placement: Attach to small driftwood or pebbles in the foreground or midground; nano and pico tanks are ideal. Propagation: Divide rhizome into sections with 2 leaves each; re-attach to fresh hardscape and allow extended establishment time.