Tropica Anubias Petite Anubias sp. 'Petite' is one of the smallest and most popular Anubias varieties available, making it an excellent choice for nano aquariums and detailed aquascapes. Originally discovered as a naturally occurring mutation at an aquarium plant nursery in Singapore, this miniature Anubias has become a firm favourite...
Anubias sp. 'Petite' is one of the smallest and most popular Anubias varieties available, making it an excellent choice for nano aquariums and detailed aquascapes. Originally discovered as a naturally occurring mutation at an aquarium plant nursery in Singapore, this miniature Anubias has become a firm favourite among aquascapers thanks to its tiny leaves, compact growth and exceptionally easy-care nature.
Growing to only around 3–5cm in height, Anubias Petite produces small, dark green leaves from a creeping rhizome. Given time, the rhizome branches readily and develops into dense, compact clumps, making it particularly effective when used to soften hardscape or create natural-looking detail around rocks and driftwood.
Like other Anubias varieties, it is slow-growing and undemanding, with relatively low light requirements. It does not require CO₂ to thrive, although additional CO₂ can encourage stronger growth.
Anubias Petite is best attached directly to rocks, wood or other hardscape using fishing line, thread or aquarium-safe adhesive. Once established, the roots will naturally anchor the plant to the surface. If planted into substrate, take care to keep the rhizome above the surface, as burying it can cause the rhizome to rot.
Aquascaping with Anubias petite
Anubias Petite is an outstanding plant for creating detail in both nano and larger aquariums. Its miniature leaves provide excellent scale when positioned around rocks and smaller pieces of wood, making it particularly well suited to nature-style and miniature aquascapes.
It can be used to create dense green clumps across hardscape or allowed to spread naturally along branches and rockwork. In larger aquariums, it also works beautifully when planted in groups, where its small scale creates an attractive contrast against larger-leaved Anubias and other broad-leaved plants.
Care Tips
Keep the rhizome exposed when attaching or planting Anubias Petite, as burying it beneath the substrate can lead to rot. Low to moderate lighting is ideal, particularly in low-maintenance aquariums, and CO₂ injection is not essential.
Avoid placing the plant directly beneath very strong lighting, as its slow growth can make it susceptible to algae accumulation on the leaves. Regular water changes and good water quality will help maintain healthy, clean foliage.
With its tiny leaves, compact growth and undemanding nature, Anubias Petite is one of the best choices for adding fine detail to an aquascape and is equally at home in a miniature nano layout or as a subtle feature within a larger planted aquarium.
