Anubias Congensis

Anubias congensis Care Guide

Common Name: Anubias congensis
Difficulty Level: Easy
Family: Araceae

General Description:

Anubias congensis is a hardy and elegant aquatic plant native to Central Africa. Recognized by its long, lance-shaped, dark green leaves, it brings a graceful vertical element to aquascapes. Like other Anubias species, it is undemanding and slow-growing, making it ideal for beginners or as a background/feature plant in low-tech or high-tech setups. Its resilience and ability to thrive in a variety of water conditions make it a favorite for aquarists.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)

• Suitable for a wide range of tank sizes.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Low to Moderate

• Grows well in shaded or low-light environments; higher lighting is tolerated but may encourage algae on leaves.

3. CO₂ Requirements:

• CO₂: Not required

• Grows reliably without CO₂, though supplemental CO₂ may encourage slightly faster growth.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.8

• Hardness: Soft to hard water

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Not substrate-dependent

• Best attached to hardscape (wood or rocks); burying the rhizome can cause it to rot.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Low

• Occasional liquid fertilization may support better leaf health in nutrient-poor tanks.

7. Maintenance:

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Very little maintenance needed; simply trim old or damaged leaves when necessary.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Rhizome division

• Easily propagated by cutting the rhizome and replanting it elsewhere.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Midground to Background

• Works beautifully attached to rocks or driftwood to add vertical height and greenery.

Summary:

Anubias congensis is a striking and low-maintenance plant perfect for all levels of aquarists. With its long, flowing leaves and tolerance for low-light conditions, it adds structure and elegance to planted tanks. It’s a classic choice for natural-style aquascapes and thrives when attached to hardscape elements.