Plant Profile Common Name: Bucephalandra Apple Leaf Buce ‘Apple Leaf’ is a stunning, low-tech aquarium plant prized for its unique teardrop-shaped leaves and vivid green coloration. This variety stays relatively small and compact, making it a versatile choice that functions perfectly as a midground accent in nano setups or a foreground detail in larger layouts. Highly versatile, it can be grown submerged or emersed, usually attached to hardscape such as driftwood or rocks rather than being buried in traditional aquarium substrate. It is an exquisite choice for freshwater aquascapes, where its slow-growing rhizomes create a lush, bright green colony that adds natural beauty to any planted tank. Key Features & Notes Named for its distinct foliage shape, 'Apple Leaf' offers a softer, rounded aesthetic compared to the narrow-leafed variants in the genus. This variety maintains a bright, saturated green hue that provides an excellent high-contrast pop against dark lava rocks or driftwood. This is one of the most durable species in the hobby and thrives in shaded areas. It is an ideal choice for aquascapes where other plants might struggle. It is perfectly at home fully submerged in an aquarium or emersed in high-humidity terrariums, vivariums, and paludariums. Care Tips & Preparation Bucephalandra is an epiphytic plant that should be attached to rocks or driftwood. Never bury the rhizome in substrate, as this will cause the plant to rot and melt. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and clear away all rockwool from the roots. For a deep dive on prepping potted plants, click here. Avoid making drastic changes to your water parameters or lighting. Unstable conditions are the primary cause of leaf melt in new specimens. While this plant is hardy and low-maintenance, CO2 injection will yield much faster growth. We recommend researching your specific water chemistry to ensure your plant thrives. Final size and coloration depend entirely on your specific aquarium conditions. Please note that photos are a representation, and individual plants may vary. Please research appropriately to ensure your plant thrives. Additional Information Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth! Family Name: AraceaeOrigin: Borneo (Endemic)Skill Level: EasyGrowth Rate: SlowLight: Low to MediumCO2: Not necessary but recommendedpH Range: 6.0 – 7.5Propagation: Divide the rhizome with sharp scissors
