Anubias barteri var. nana ’Kirin’ - Tropica

Anubias barteri 'Kirin' | A Rare and Enchanting Aquarium Plant

Anubias barteri 'Kirin' is one of the most distinctive and eye-catching Anubias cultivars available in the planted aquarium hobby. Named after the Kirin — a mythical creature from Asian folklore — this cultivar lives up to its legendary namesake with dramatically wavy, crinkled leaf edges that set it apart from every other Anubias variety. Its deep green, ovate leaves measure just 1–1.5 inches (3–4 cm), making it a compact and detail-rich addition to any aquascape, particularly suited to foreground and midground placement or as an accent piece on driftwood and rocks.

Why We Love It

Like all Anubias, the Kirin is slow growing, undemanding, and virtually bulletproof — thriving in low light without CO2 injection and tolerating a wide range of water parameters. Its tough, leathery leaves make it an excellent choice for tanks with plant-eating fish, and its unique texture adds depth and visual interest that smoother leaved plants simply can't replicate. The wavy edges catch light beautifully and give the plant an almost sculptural quality in a well-designed aquascape.

Care at a Glance

• Origin: Cultivar
• Growth rate: Slow
• Height: 1–2 inches (3–5+ cm)
• Light demand: Low
• CO2: Not required

Important — Do Not Bury the Rhizome

Always attach Anubias 'Kirin' to driftwood, rocks, or hardscape rather than planting it in substrate. If placement in substrate is preferred, ensure the rhizome — the thick horizontal stem from which the leaves emerge — remains fully exposed above the surface. Burying the rhizome will cause it to rot and kill the plant.