Anubias Dragon Claw

Anubias Dragon Claw is a rare and eye-catching Anubias cultivar valued for its narrow, deeply serrated leaves that give it a dramatic claw-like appearance. Its dark green foliage adds a bold, sculptural texture to planted aquariums, especially when attached to driftwood, rocks, or decorative hardscape. Like other Anubias types, it is a slow grower and well suited for hobbyists who want a hardy plant with a premium look and low day-to-day maintenance.

This plant works especially well in nano tanks, nature aquariums, shrimp tanks, and display aquascapes where leaf shape and contrast matter. Because it is a rhizome plant, it should not be buried deep into substrate. Instead, it performs best when tied or glued to hardscape, allowing the roots to anchor naturally over time.

Key Features

• Appearance: Distinctive dark green leaves with a narrow shape and serrated edges that resemble dragon claws.
• Placement: Best used in the midground, on wood, on rock, or as a feature plant in smaller aquariums.
• Growth Rate: Slow growth makes it easy to manage and ideal for long-term aquascapes.
• Lighting Need: Low to medium light is usually enough to maintain healthy growth and deep leaf colour.
• CO2 Need: CO2 is not essential, but a low to medium level can support stronger growth and cleaner leaf development.
• Aquascape Use: Excellent for premium planted layouts, shrimp tanks, and low-maintenance setups needing texture and contrast.

Care Requirements

• Lighting: Keep under low to medium aquarium lighting. Very intense light may encourage algae on older leaves if nutrients and flow are unbalanced.
• Substrate: Do not bury the rhizome. Attach the plant to driftwood, lava rock, or other aquarium-safe hardscape for best results.
• CO2 / Fertiliser: Can grow without injected CO2, making it suitable for simple planted tanks. A regular liquid fertiliser routine may help maintain colour and support steady new growth.
• Water Conditions: Performs well in stable freshwater aquariums around 22 to 28°C with a pH roughly between 6.0 and 7.8.
• Planting Tips: Use thread, fishing line, or aquarium-safe glue to secure the rhizome. Avoid damaging the crown, and remove algae-covered old leaves if needed.
• Compatibility: Suitable for community tanks, shrimp tanks, and most peaceful planted setups. Best kept away from fish that constantly uproot or chew plants.

Anubias Dragon Claw is a great choice for aquarists looking for a rare collector plant that stays manageable while adding a unique, high-end look to the aquarium. Its hardy nature and unusual leaf form make it a standout option for both beginners exploring rhizome plants and experienced aquascapers building detailed layouts.