Anubias sp. ‘Kirin’

Anubias sp. ‘Kirin’ is a rare and visually striking cultivar of Anubias, known for its deeply serrated, wavy, and crinkled leaves—almost like a ruffled or dragon-scale texture. It adds a dramatic texture contrast in aquascapes and is valued for its hardiness and compact growth.

Here’s how to care for Anubias sp. ‘Kirin’:

Anubias sp. ‘Kirin’ – Care Guide

Quick Facts

• Type: Rhizomatous aquatic plant

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Leaf Shape: Crinkled, deeply serrated, dark green

• Size: Small to medium (typically 5–10 cm tall)

• Placement: Foreground to midground, on hardscape

• Origin: Cultivar (not found in the wild)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• CO₂: Not necessary, but helps promote stronger growth

Lighting

• Level: Low to medium

• Tips:

  • Bright light is not needed

  • Too much light can cause algae buildup on leaves

Planting & Positioning

• Do not bury the rhizome—it will rot.

• Attach to:

  • Driftwood

  • Lava rock

  • Hardscape structures

• How to attach:

  • Use thread, fishing line, or super glue gel

• Best suited for: Highlighting textures in low-tech and high-tech aquascapes

Fertilization

• Primary method: Liquid fertilizers (micro + macro nutrients)

• Iron supplements: Optional, but can help maintain deep green color

• Root tabs: Not needed, as it doesn’t root in substrate

✂️ Care & Propagation

• Maintenance: Minimal; remove dead/damaged leaves near the rhizome

• Propagation: Divide the rhizome (make sure each piece has several healthy leaves)

• Growth pace: Slow—don’t expect fast spread

⚠️ Common Problems

Tank Mates & Use

• Safe for: Shrimp, snails, peaceful community fish

• Popular in:

  • Shrimp tanks

  • Nano aquascapes

  • Blackwater or low-tech tanks

• Design tip: Use as a textured accent among smoother-leaved plants