How to Grow Anubias and Java Fern
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Anubias and Java Fern
Anubias barteri; Microsorum pteropus
aquatic plantAnubias and Java fern are popular freshwater aquatic plants prized for their distinctive foliage and low-maintenance nature. Anubias features broad, heart-shaped leaves in deep green, while Java fern displays delicate, feathery fronds. Both are rooted emergent plants that create striking visual contrast in aquariums and paludariums.
When should you plant Anubias and Java Fern in your zone?
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Example Anubias and Java Fern timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Anubias and Java Fern
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Anubias and Java Fern
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Anubias and Java Fern dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Tropical conditions (72-82°F); suitable for indoor aquariums year-round
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Get my Anubias and Java Fern timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
2-3 weeksInitial leaf unfurling and root development; leaves may appear pale or translucent as the plant acclimates
Maintain stable water parameters; avoid moving plant frequently; ensure rhizome/roots are positioned correctly
Vegetative Growth
4-8 weeksNew leaves emerge regularly; plant fills allocated space; fronds become fuller and more textured
Provide consistent lighting and fertilization; monitor for nutrient deficiencies; trim dead leaves promptly
Development
4-12 weeksMature leaf structure established; characteristic morphology fully visible; plant reaches desired aesthetic form
Maintain regular fertilization schedule; continue light photoperiod; observe for algae competition on leaf surfaces
Reproduction
Ongoing (months to years)Anubias may produce rhizome offshoots; Java fern develops plantlets on mature fronds; flowering rare in submerged conditions
Allow offshoots to mature before separation; remove Java fern plantlets when they develop small roots for propagation
Maintenance
IndefiniteEstablished plants require minimal intervention; sustained growth and leaf shedding cycle continues
Prune old fronds; maintain water quality; adjust fertilization based on tank bioload; manage algae growth
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Reduce light duration to 8 hours; increase water change frequency; introduce algae-eating fish (Siamese algae eaters, otocinclus); use chemical algaecides as last resort; manual removal with soft brush
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Manual removal; introduce snail-eating fish (loaches, pufferfish); reduce feeding to limit bioload; quarantine new plants before introduction
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Increase aeration; perform frequent water changes; treat affected fish separately; maintain proper water temperature
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Improve water circulation; reduce organic debris; perform partial water changes; isolate affected plant; treat with antifungal medication if severe
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Add comprehensive aquarium fertilizer; use root tabs for Anubias; adjust lighting intensity; test water for NPK and micronutrient levels
Uses
Aquarium aesthetics and contrast
HouseholdAnubias's broad, sculptural leaves and Java fern's delicate, feathery fronds create striking visual contrast in planted aquariums. Their differing morphologies establish dynamic depth, texture, and focal points. [source]
Shelter and grazing for aquatic fauna
WildlifeBoth plants provide hiding spaces for fish fry, invertebrates, and shy species while offering soft surfaces for grazing by herbivorous fish. Anubias's structure protects vulnerable organisms; Java fern's fronds harbor beneficial microorganisms and biofilm. [source]
Water quality improvement
HouseholdThese plants absorb excess nitrates, phosphates, and other waste products, reducing algae bloom potential and improving water clarity. They act as biological filters in established aquarium systems. [source]
Paludarium and terrarium design
CraftAnubias and Java fern thrive in high-humidity, semi-aquatic environments, making them ideal for paludaria and riparium designs. Their aerial growth enhances vertical landscaping in hybrid aquatic-terrestrial setups. [source]
Aquaponic system integration
CulinaryBoth plants are non-toxic and can serve as decorative elements in aquaponic systems that produce edible fish and plants. They enhance system aesthetics while contributing to water quality management. [source]
Harvest Tips
Anubias and Java fern are not harvested for consumption but propagated vegetatively. For Anubias: Allow rhizome to develop 2-3 new leaves before carefully dividing with a sharp knife, ensuring each division has healthy roots and a growing point. For Java fern: Remove mature plantlets that develop 3-4 leaves and small roots from mother frond and allow them to drift or attach to hardscape. Propagation takes 4-6 weeks to establish new independent plants.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Anubias barteri is native to West African rainforests and produces emersed flowers that resemble miniature calla lilies, though flowering rarely occurs in fully submerged aquarium conditions.
- 🌱 Java fern is named for its origin in Southeast Asia and can survive periods of complete emersion, making it adaptable to temporary water level fluctuations in natural habitats.
- 🌱 Both plants are extremely slow-growing compared to stem plants, sometimes adding just 1-2 new leaves per month, but their longevity (living 10+ years in aquariums) makes them economical long-term investments.
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