Bucephalandra 'Brownie Phoenix' Care Guide
Common Name: Bucephalandra 'Brownie Phoenix'
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Family: Araceae
General Description:
Bucephalandra 'Brownie Phoenix' is a rare and highly sought-after variant of Bucephalandra, known for its striking dark foliage with iridescent hues that shift under different lighting conditions. Native to the fast-flowing streams of Borneo, this plant thrives when attached to hard surfaces such as rocks or driftwood. It is slow-growing but adds a unique and dramatic element to aquascapes.
Care Requirements:
1. Tank Size:
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (20 liters)
- Suitable for nano tanks and larger aquariums.
2. Lighting Requirements:
- Lighting: Low to Moderate
- Intense lighting can enhance coloration but may also encourage algae growth.
3. CO2 Requirements:
- CO2: Not required but beneficial
- CO2 supplementation promotes faster growth and deeper coloration.
4. Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- Hardness: Soft to moderately soft
5. Substrate:
- Substrate Type: Not required; should be attached to hardscape
- Burying the rhizome in the substrate can cause it to rot.
6. Fertilization:
- Nutrients: Low to Moderate
- Benefits from liquid fertilizers rich in micronutrients.
7. Maintenance:
- Water Flow: Moderate to Strong
- Prefers a steady water current to mimic its natural habitat.
- Growth Rate: Slow
8. Propagation:
- Propagation Method: Rhizome division
- Carefully cut and reattach sections of the rhizome to encourage new growth.
9. Placement in Tank:
- Placement: Foreground to Midground
- Ideal for aquascapes with rocks and driftwood as attachment points.
Summary:
Bucephalandra 'Brownie Phoenix' is a stunning, slow-growing plant perfect for aquascapers looking to add a unique touch to their setups. It thrives best when attached to hardscape elements and benefits from stable water conditions, moderate lighting, and occasional CO2 supplementation.
