Tropica Bucephalandra sp. Red
Bucephalandra sp. ‘Red’ is a beautiful and compact aquarium plant prized for its deep, rich colours and textured foliage. Similar in growth habit to Anubias, this species naturally grows attached to rocks and wood in fast-flowing streams, making it an excellent choice for aquascapes where plants are mounted to hardscape.
This variety features small, wavy-edged leaves that develop tones of dark green to deep red, often displaying tiny white speckling across the surface. When grown submerged in aquariums, the leaves can sometimes develop a subtle metallic blue sheen, adding extra visual interest and making the plant stand out in planted layouts.
Bucephalandra species are slow growing and very adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and advanced aquascapers. Bucephalandra sp. ‘Red’ thrives in lower lighting conditions and works particularly well when attached to driftwood or rocks within the aquascape.
Key Features
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Attractive dark green to deep red foliage
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Leaves often display white speckling and metallic tones
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Small, textured leaves with distinctive wavy edges
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Ideal for attaching to rocks and driftwood
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Slow growing and easy to care for
Care Requirements
Lighting:
Low to medium lighting. Strong lighting may enhance colour but is not required.
CO₂:
CO₂ is not essential but will improve growth and overall plant health.
Water Parameters:
Growth Rate:
Slow growing.
Placement in Aquarium:
Foreground to midground, attached to hardscape.
Planting Tips
Bucephalandra grows from a creeping rhizome. This rhizome must not be buried in the substrate, as covering it can cause the plant to rot. Instead, attach the plant to rocks or driftwood using thread, glue, or allow it to naturally anchor itself over time.
Aquascaping Use
With its compact size, deep colours, and textured leaves, Bucephalandra sp. ‘Red’ is perfect for nature-style aquascapes, nano aquariums, and detailed hardscape layouts, where it adds depth, contrast, and subtle colour variation to the aquarium.
