Bucephalandra sp. 'Sekadau 1'

Bucephalandra sp. 'Sekadau 1' is one of several distinct Bucephalandra variants collected from the Sekadau River drainage of West Kalimantan, Borneo. It produces elongated, lance-shaped leaves of deep green, typically adorned with scattered white or silvery spotting on the leaf surface — a feature that becomes more pronounced under good growing conditions. The leaves display a subtle blue-green iridescence that intensifies under full-spectrum lighting.

This variety grows on a slowly creeping rhizome and is best attached to rocks or driftwood in areas of moderate flow. Like all Bucephalandra from Borneo's interior streams, it thrives in soft, slightly acidic water and benefits from CO2 supplementation, though it will survive without it at greatly reduced growth rates. It is a popular collector's variety due to the combination of attractive leaf shape, spotting pattern, and iridescence. Patience is required — growth is very slow, but the plant is long-lived and exceptionally beautiful when established.

Light: Low to medium; moderate indirect light brings out the silvery spotting pattern and iridescence. CO2: Recommended; CO2 injection significantly improves growth and leaf quality in this slow-growing variety. Fertilisation: Bi-weekly liquid micronutrients and trace elements; adequate iron enhances the leaf colour and sheen. Placement: Attach to rocks or driftwood in midground areas; positions with gentle flow help maintain leaf clarity. Propagation: Divide rhizome sections of 2–3 leaves and re-attach to fresh hardscape; allow 6–8 weeks to re-establish.