Bucephalandra sp. 'Brownie'

Bucephalandra sp. 'Brownie' is a rare, slow-growing epiphyte in the Bucephalandra genus, native to Borneo. It’s prized for its dark, almost metallic-looking leaves—ranging from deep green to reddish-brown or even purplish, depending on lighting and water conditions. 'Brownie' types are typically small, compact, and perfect for nano aquascapes or detail work on hardscape.

Here’s a detailed care guide:

Bucephalandra sp. 'Brownie' – Care Guide

Quick Facts

• Common Name: Buce 'Brownie'

• Type: Rhizomatous epiphyte

• Growth Rate: Very slow

• Leaf Color: Brownish-green to deep purple/bronze (can shimmer under light)

• Leaf Size: 1–3 cm (small)

• Placement: Foreground, on hardscape

• Origin: Borneo (cultivar/collection type)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)

• pH: 5.5–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• CO₂: Optional but beneficial (improves color and speed)

Lighting

• Level: Low to medium

• Tips:

  • Moderate light brings out better coloration (bronze, red tones)

  • Too much light can trigger algae growth on slow-growing leaves

  • Shading it slightly under other plants or hardscape can help

Planting & Placement

• Do NOT bury the rhizome—it will rot

• Best attached to:

  • Lava rock

  • Driftwood

  • Stone or ceramic mounts

• Attachment method:

  • Thread, fishing line, or super glue gel (cyanoacrylate)

• Design note: Excellent for nano tanks or as a detail plant in larger tanks

Fertilization

• Water column fertilization: Important (micros, potassium)

• Iron: Helps enhance deep color and iridescence

• CO₂ injection: Optional, but helps boost color vibrancy and growth rate

• Root tabs: Not needed

Flow & Circulation

• Prefers moderate flow to avoid algae and detritus buildup on leaves

• Avoid stagnant spots

✂️ Maintenance & Propagation

• Trimming: Remove damaged or algae-covered leaves near the rhizome

• Propagation: Cut rhizome into segments, each with at least 2–3 leaves

• Pace: Extremely slow—expect weeks to months between noticeable growth

⚠️ Common Issues

Tank Compatibility

• Safe for: Shrimp, snails, peaceful fish

• Great in:

  • Nano tanks

  • Detail aquascapes

  • Blackwater setups

  • Low-tech or high-tech aquariums

✅ Tips for Best Color

• Use full-spectrum LED lighting

• Add iron-rich liquid ferts weekly

• Place under indirect or dappled light

• Maintain slightly acidic, stable water