Anubia Nana Petite

About Anubias Nana Petite

Anubias Nana Petite is one of the smallest and most popular Anubias varieties available to aquascapers. It is prized for its tiny, deep-green leaves and slow-growing nature, making it an excellent choice for nano aquariums, shrimp tanks, and detailed aquascapes.

Unlike many aquarium plants, Anubias Nana Petite does not need to be planted into the substrate. It grows naturally attached to rocks, driftwood, and other hardscape. The rhizome should always remain above the substrate, as burying it can cause the plant to rot.

Its compact size makes it particularly useful for creating miniature landscapes around rocks and driftwood. It also requires relatively little maintenance and tolerates a wide range of aquarium conditions.

Anubias Nana Petite performs well under low to moderate lighting and does not require CO₂. CO₂ supplementation can encourage growth, but because this is a naturally slow-growing plant, patience is key.

Its tough leaves are generally unsuitable for most herbivorous fish and provide excellent grazing surfaces for shrimp and biofilm. It is particularly popular in aquariums containing shrimp, nano fish, and other peaceful species.

Hardy, compact, and extremely versatile, Anubias Nana Petite is an outstanding choice for aquascapers wanting a miniature plant with minimal maintenance.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana 'Petite'
Common Name: Anubias Nana Petite
Plant Type: Rhizome Plant
Growth Rate: Slow
Difficulty: Easy
Lighting: Low to Moderate
CO₂ Required: No
Temperature: 20–28°C
pH: 6.0–8.0
Water Hardness: 2–15 dGH
Placement: Foreground to Midground / Hardscape
Suitable For: Nano aquariums, shrimp tanks, planted aquariums, low-tech tanks, and aquascapes

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Anubias Nana Petite require CO₂?

No. It is one of the easiest aquarium plants to grow without CO₂. Supplemental CO₂ can encourage faster growth but is not necessary.

Can Anubias Nana Petite be planted in substrate?

The roots can grow into the substrate, but the rhizome must remain above the substrate. Burying the rhizome can cause it to rot.

Can I attach Anubias Nana Petite to rocks or driftwood?

Yes. This is one of the best ways to grow it. Attach it using aquarium-safe glue, thread, or simply wedge it securely between hardscape.

Is Anubias Nana Petite suitable for shrimp tanks?

Absolutely. Its small leaves provide excellent surfaces for biofilm and make it particularly attractive in nano shrimp aquariums.

How fast does Anubias Nana Petite grow?

It is a slow-growing plant. Under good conditions, new leaves may take several weeks to develop. Its slow growth is one reason it requires very little maintenance.

Common Mistakes

Burying the rhizome
The rhizome must remain exposed. Only the roots should be planted or allowed to grow into the substrate.

Using excessive lighting
Anubias does not require strong light. Excessive lighting can encourage algae growth on its slow-growing leaves.

Expecting rapid growth
Nana Petite is naturally slow growing. Give it time to establish rather than constantly moving or trimming it.

Placing it directly under intense lighting
Positioning it in shaded areas around driftwood or beneath taller plants can help minimise algae growth.

Overlooking algae buildup
Because the leaves grow slowly, algae can accumulate. Good water quality, balanced lighting, and algae-grazing shrimp can help keep the leaves clean.