Anubias barteri var. nana ’Pinto’ - Tropica

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Pinto' | A Rare and Striking Variegated Aquarium Plant

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Pinto' is one of the most coveted and visually stunning cultivars in the planted aquarium hobby. A carefully selected variant of Anubias barteri, the Pinto is prized for its breathtaking variegated leaves — each one displaying a unique, unpredictable blend of white, light green, and deep green that makes every single plant completely one of a kind. Measuring 1–2.5 inches (3–6 cm), the leaves are compact and detailed, making this an exceptional focal point in any aquascape.

A Plant That Keeps You Guessing

One of the most fascinating things about Anubias 'Pinto' is that its patterning can shift depending on environmental conditions. Under ideal lighting, the white variegation intensifies into a striking contrast against the darker green. In lower light or suboptimal conditions, new leaves may emerge a more uniform dark green. Getting the balance right is part of the rewarding challenge of keeping this cultivar — and when it's thriving, the results are genuinely spectacular.

Why We Love It

Despite its exotic appearance, Anubias 'Pinto' shares the same hardy, low-maintenance nature as all Anubias varieties. It requires no CO2 injection, tolerates a wide range of water parameters, and grows beautifully attached to driftwood, rocks, and hardscape. Its tough leaves also make it resistant to plant-eating fish — a rare combination of delicate beauty and robust durability.

Care at a Glance

• Origin: Cultivar
• Growth rate: Slow
• Height: up to 2 inches (5+ cm)
• Light demand: Medium — good lighting enhances variegation, but avoid excessive intensity which can cause damage and algae issues
• CO2: Not required

Important — Do Not Bury the Rhizome

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

A Note on Patience

Anubias 'Pinto' is a slow grower, and its variegated nature means it can be more temperamental than standard Anubias varieties. New leaves may take weeks to emerge, and the patterning of each new leaf is always a surprise. For aquarists who appreciate the finer details of a planted aquascape, the wait is absolutely worth it.