Bolbitis heudelotii – African Water Fern

Add a touch of wild, natural character to your aquarium with Bolbitis heudelotii, also known as the African Water Fern. Native to tropical Africa, this beautiful aquatic fern produces long, delicate, bright-green fronds that create a lush, flowing appearance as they mature.

With its feathery foliage and naturally elegant growth habit, Bolbitis heudelotii is a fantastic choice for creating a natural-looking midground or background and works particularly well when attached to wood or rock.

A Beautiful Rhizome Plant

Bolbitis heudelotii is a rhizome plant, meaning it does not need to be planted into the substrate.

Instead, attach the plant to driftwood, rocks or other hardscape and allow the rhizome to remain exposed. Over time, the roots will naturally attach themselves to the surface and the plant will gradually establish.

Do not bury the rhizome in the substrate, as this can cause it to deteriorate.

Bolbitis is a relatively slow-growing plant, making it easy to maintain and ideal for aquascapes where you want a permanent feature without having to constantly trim and replant.

Water & Growing Conditions

This fern naturally grows in streams and rivers, often in areas where it receives filtered or indirect light. It is therefore well suited to aquariums with moderate lighting.

Bolbitis heudelotii generally appreciates soft, slightly acidic water and good water quality. It can grow without CO₂, although adding CO₂ can significantly improve growth and encourage healthier, more vigorous development.

A quality liquid fertiliser can also be beneficial, although fertilisation should be used appropriately according to the needs of your aquarium.

Great for Shrimp & Natural Aquascapes

The dense, intricate foliage provides excellent shelter and grazing surfaces for shrimp and small fish, making Bolbitis a particularly useful addition to community and shrimp aquariums.

As the plant matures, its long fronds create plenty of texture and movement, helping to give your aquarium a more established and natural appearance.

Propagation

Bolbitis heudelotii can be propagated by dividing the rhizome. Simply separate the rhizome into sections, ensuring each section has healthy leaves and roots, then attach the individual pieces to your chosen hardscape.

With patience, a single plant can develop into an impressive, bushy feature.

Aquarium Plant Key Information

Perfect For

• Natural-style aquascapes

• Midground and background planting

• Attaching to driftwood and rocks

• Shrimp and community aquariums

• Low-to-moderate light setups

• Adding lush, flowing texture

• Providing shelter for shrimp and small fish

A stunning African fern with delicate, feathery foliage that brings a natural, mature feel to any freshwater aquarium. Attach it to your hardscape, give it time to establish, and let it grow into a beautiful feature of your aquascape.