Epiphyte Aquarium Plants: Attach, Grow, Thrive

When designing a beautiful aquascape, adding a variety of textures and growth styles can take your aquarium from good to stunning. One essential group of plants that every aquascaper should know about is epiphyte plants. These versatile species don’t root in soil like typical plants — instead, they anchor themselves onto rocks, wood, or other surfaces, creating a more natural, wild look inside your tank.
In this blog, Horizon Aquatics will dive into what epiphyte plants are, why they’re perfect for aquascaping, how to care for them, and some of the best types to add to your setup!

What Are Epiphyte Plants?

In nature, epiphytes are plants that grow on other surfaces rather than rooting in soil. You'll find them in rainforests clinging to trees, rocks, or even other plants. In aquariums, epiphytes work the same way — they attach themselves to hardscape materials like driftwood, lava rock, or aquarium stones.

They don't harm the surfaces they grow on, they simply use them for support. Epiphytes absorb nutrients directly from the water column through their leaves and roots, making them ideal for aquariums where you want to create height, depth, and a natural feel without crowding the substrate.

Many aquatic epiphytes, such as Anubias and Bucephalandra, grow from a thick, horizontal stem called a rhizome. This rhizome should never be buried in the substrate, as it can rot; instead, it should remain exposed and securely attached to hard surfaces to ensure healthy growth.

Anubias Rhizome

Why Use Epiphyte Plants in Your Aquarium?

• Natural Appearance: Epiphytes make aquascapes look more mature, natural, and dynamic, especially when attached to hardscape materials.

• Low Maintenance: Most epiphyte species are hardy, slow-growing, and don't require frequent trimming.

• No Substrate Needed: Great for aquariums with sand or minimalistic substrate designs where planting rooted plants would be difficult.

• Algae Control: By filling empty spaces, epiphytes can help shade surfaces and compete with algae for nutrients.

• Versatile Placement: They can be attached anywhere — midground, background, or even high up on branches!

How to Care for Epiphyte Plants

Caring for aquarium epiphytes is straightforward, but a few key tips will help them thrive:

• Attach, Don’t Plant: Never bury the roots in substrate. Instead, tie or glue the plant onto a surface using aquarium-safe plant glue or fine fishing line.

• Lighting: Most epiphytes thrive under low to moderate light, making them perfect for low-tech or shaded tanks.

• Fertilisation: They absorb nutrients from the water column, so regular dosing with a good liquid fertiliser will keep them healthy.

• CO₂ Injection: Not strictly necessary, but CO₂ will boost growth rates and improve overall plant health and coloration.

• Water Flow: Moderate water movement helps prevent debris buildup and keeps epiphytes looking clean and vibrant.

Best Epiphyte Plants for Your Aquarium

Here are some of our top picks available at Horizon Aquatics:

1. Anubias barteri nana (Easy)

One of the most popular epiphyte plants, Anubias barteri nana is hardy, slow-growing, and nearly indestructible. Its broad, dark green leaves create a lush, jungle-like feel. Perfect for beginners!

• Lighting: Low to Moderate

• CO₂: Optional

• Special Tip: Attach to driftwood or rocks; avoid burying the rhizome.

2. Bucephalandra species (Easy)

Known for their unique colours ranging from green to deep purple and blue hues, Bucephalandra varieties are true gems. They are slower-growing but reward patient aquascapers with stunning details.

• Lighting: Moderate

• CO₂: Recommended for vibrant colors

• Special Tip: Keep them in areas with good flow to prevent algae buildup.

3. Microsorum pteropus (Java Fern) (Easy)

Java Fern is a classic choice for aquascapes. It's adaptable and perfect for tying onto rocks or driftwood. Its long, flowing leaves add a soft, natural texture to any tank.

• Lighting: Low to Moderate

• CO₂: Optional

• Special Tip: New plantlets often grow on older leaves — you can detach and replant them!

4. Bolbitis heudelotii (African Water Fern) (Medium)

For something more dramatic, Bolbitis heudelotii offers finely textured, bright green leaves. It adds an elegant, "flowy" aesthetic to aquascapes.

• Lighting: Moderate

• CO₂: Recommended

• Special Tip: Prefers slightly cooler water temperatures and moderate water flow.

5. Mosses (Easy to Medium)

Mosses like Java Moss, Christmas Moss or Riccardia Moss are epiphytic by nature and can cover hardscape beautifully, creating a lush, aged look. Mosses are fantastic for breeding tanks and shrimp tanks, too.

• Lighting: Low to Moderate

• CO₂: Optional, but enhances growth

• Special Tip: Regular trimming keeps moss looking neat and prevents overgrowth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Epiphyte Aquarium Plants

Q: What are epiphyte plants in aquariums?
A: Epiphyte plants are aquatic plants that naturally grow attached to surfaces like rocks, driftwood, and decorations instead of rooting in the substrate. They absorb nutrients directly from the water column.

Q: Do epiphyte plants need soil or substrate?
A: No, epiphyte plants do not require soil or substrate to grow. In fact, burying their roots can cause them to rot. Instead, attach them to hardscape materials using aquarium glue, or cotton.

Q: Are epiphyte plants easy to care for?
A: Yes, most epiphyte plants like Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Java Fern are very beginner-friendly. They require low to moderate light, stable water parameters, and minimal maintenance to thrive.

Q: How do you attach epiphyte plants in an aquarium?
A: You can attach epiphyte plants to rocks, wood, or decorations using aquarium-safe glue, or cotton thread. After a few weeks, their roots will naturally anchor themselves to the surface.

Q: Can epiphyte plants grow without CO₂ injection?
A: Absolutely! Many popular epiphytes grow well in low-tech aquariums without CO₂. However, providing CO₂ and balanced nutrients can boost their growth rate and enhance their colour.

Q: What are the best epiphyte plants for aquascaping?
A: Some of the best epiphyte plants include Anubias Nana, Bucephalandra varieties, Java Fern, Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern), and mosses like Christmas Moss and Java Moss.

Conclusion: Why Epiphytes Are a Must-Have for Your Aquascape

If you're looking to elevate your aquarium design, epiphyte plants are an unbeatable choice. Whether you're just starting out or you're an experienced aquascaper, adding these versatile, low-maintenance plants to your hardscape can make a dramatic difference in the look and feel of your tank.

At Horizon Aquatics, we stock a wide range of healthy, vibrant epiphyte plants — from easy-going Anubias to rare and colourful Bucephalandra varieties. Visit us online or in-store and find the perfect epiphytes to bring your aquascape to life!