Common Name: Bucephalandra Red Cherry
Bucephalandra Red Cherry is a variation featuring leaves that are small and elongated with crinkled edges, with colors ranging from deep green to shades of reddish-brown or maroon. Despite its small size, it is highly prized for its pronounced iridescent coloration with appropriate care and when grown under full-spectrum LED lighting. This plant can be grown submerged or emersed and is a very slow-growing plant, with new leaves sprouting from long, thin rhizomes. It can be propagated by cutting the rhizome and attaching to driftwood and rocks using super glue gel or thread.
As an epiphytic plant, Bucephalandra generates new growth from its rhizome. Optimal results are achieved for Bucephalandra in low to medium lighting conditions, fostering dense growth when provided with favorable circumstances. CO2 injection, adequate water flow, and consistent tank upkeep can encourage faster and more robust growth. When planting, don’t cover the stem and rhizome to prevent plant decay and deterioration. While its care is the same as other popular aquatic species like Anubias and Java Ferns, Bucephalandra is less tolerant of abrupt parameter changes.
Key Features & Important Notes
- Bucephalandra is an epiphytic aquarium plant so it can be attached to aquarium hardscape.
- Do not plant Bucephalandra in substrate and cover the rhizome. This will cause it to melt and rot.
- Bucephalandra’s final size, coloration and growth rate are dependent upon the condition of the aquarium. Photos are a representation of what you will receive and may vary.
- Do not make drastic changes to the aquarium. Unstable parameters will result in melt and rotting of the aquarium plant.
- CO2 injection will yield better growth. Please research appropriately to ensure your plant thrives.
Care & Additional Information
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. We encourage you to do thorough research before keeping any type of livestock.
Family Name: Araceae
Origin: Borneo
pH: 6-7.5
Skill Level: Easy
Light: Low to Medium
Co2: Not necessary but recommended
Propagation: Cut by rhizome
Growth rate: Slow