Bucephalandra are endemic to Indonesia and are found on the island of Borneo. They are slow-growing, hardy and are especially well suited to grow attached to hardscape (rock / wood), as in the picture above and below. They can also be grown on the substrate as long as the rhizome is not buried. Due to their flexible light demands, they can be grown in shaded portions of the tank, or in full lighting.

Buceps belong to a genus of flowering rheophyte that grows with a creeping rhizome; they come in a large variety of leaf shapes and colors. A distinctive feature of all Bucephalandra are bright spots on the leaves. Many are iridescent, reflecting brilliant colors when viewed at particular angles.

Bucephalandra species face less stress/melting issues with cooler water, even though growing them in discus temps is still possible (above 80f/27c). For those living in the tropical belt, having chillers or at least fans is beneficial. They do better in tanks with good flow.

key success factors

• Slightly cooler water (71f/21c-79f/26c).
• Clean, well filtered water with good flow.
• Stable, biologically matured tank environment.
• Some hardness (GH/KH) is helpful. (5dGH and above)
• Adequate CO2/Fertilization brings out coloration, speeds up growth.

(source: 2hraquarist)

*Please note, not the actual photos and plants may differ from product image.