Anubias Barteri 'Petite' - Tropica

Anubias barteri 'Petite' | The Perfect Miniature Anubias for Any Aquascape

Anubias barteri 'Petite' is one of the most charming and versatile plants in the freshwater aquarium hobby. A naturally occurring mutation first discovered at the Oriental Aquarium plant nursery in Singapore, this tiny cultivar stays under 2 inches (5 cm) tall and produces exceptionally small, delicate leaves on a creeping rhizome that branches freely and fills in beautifully over time. The result is a dense, lush miniature plant that looks stunning in nano tanks and makes an exquisite detail piece in larger aquascapes.

If you love the look of Anubias but want something with a finer, more intricate texture, 'Petite' is the one.

Small Plant, Big Impact

Despite its diminutive size, Anubias 'Petite' is every bit as tough and undemanding as its larger relatives. It thrives in low light without CO2 injection, tolerates a wide range of water parameters, and is completely resistant to plant-eating fish thanks to its leathery, tough leaves. Its branching rhizome gradually spreads and creates dense, textured clusters that add incredible detail and depth to hardscape — particularly beautiful when allowed to colonise a piece of driftwood or a rocky outcrop over time.

Care at a Glance

• Origin: Cultivar, Singapore
• Growth rate: Slow
• Height: 1–2 inches (3–5+ cm)
• Light demand: Low — avoid high light intensity which can encourage algae growth on leaves
• CO2: Not required
• Best placement: Foreground to midground, attached to hardscape

Planting Tips

Anubias 'Petite' is best attached to driftwood, rocks, or other hardscape using fishing line, thread, or aquarium-safe glue. It will gradually root itself in place over several weeks and can then be left to spread naturally. It looks particularly stunning in groups, where multiple plants colonise the same piece of hardscape and merge into a dense, carpeting effect.

Important — Do Not Bury the Rhizome

Never bury the rhizome — the thick horizontal stem from which the leaves emerge — in substrate. Even partial coverage will cause the rhizome to rot and kill the plant. If placing near the substrate, ensure the rhizome sits fully above the surface at all times.

Compatible With

• All community fish, shrimp, and snails
• Ideal for nano tanks and miniature aquascapes
• Perfect for shrimp tanks where its tiny leaves and branching structure provide excellent cover and grazing surfaces for shrimplets