Bucephalandra motleyana

Family : Araceae

PlantFreshwaterepiphyte

A dwarf epiphytic plant with dark green glossy leaves, highly prized in aquascaping. Native to Borneo, it is threatened in the wild.

Bucephalandra motleyana — photo 1 sur 1 — Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.01 / 1

Popularity

Easy plant

standard lighting, few requirements

Availability

Common in shops

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Vulnerable

Description

Bucephalandra motleyana is a small creeping rhizome plant with oval leaves 3-8 cm long, intense green with metallic sheen. It grows very slowly and stays compact. Its flowers are discreet, typical of Araceae. In the aquarium, it must be attached to wood or stones. It tolerates a wide range of parameters but prefers soft, acidic water. Propagation is by rhizome division.

Habitat

Region :

Rivers and streams of Borneo, on rocks and roots in moderate current areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature22–28 °C

pH5.5–7

GH2–6 °dGH

KH1–4 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 15 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 1.5 mg/L

CO₂

≤ 10 mg/L

Light

Low

Care

Difficulty

2/5

Diet

Photosynthetic

Min. tank

20 L

Min. group

Adult size

10 cm

Lifespan

5 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

rhizome division

Care notes

Moderate difficulty plant, requires patience. Low to moderate light; too strong light may promote algae. CO2 is not essential but speeds up growth. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 2-6. A balanced liquid fertilizer is recommended. Avoid planting the rhizome. Suitable for nano tanks and planted aquariums. Compatible with shrimp and peaceful fish. Clean and stable water is essential.

Track this species in your tank