Bolbitis Heudelotii – African Water Fern Aquarium Plant

Bolbitis Heudelotii, commonly known as African Water Fern, is a beautiful and popular aquatic fern that has been a favourite among aquascapers for many years. It is known for its elegant, transparent bottle-green pinnate leaves and naturally attractive appearance, making it an excellent choice for creating a lush and natural-looking aquarium.

Native to tropical Africa, Bolbitis Heudelotii naturally grows attached to rocks and other solid surfaces along the waterline of fast-flowing streams and rivers. It is often found growing alongside Anubias species, and it has similar growing habits in the aquarium.

Bolbitis Heudelotii for Aquascaping

In an aquarium, Bolbitis Heudelotii is best attached to rocks, driftwood, and other hardscape materials. Its blackish roots can naturally attach themselves to solid surfaces over time. It can also be positioned on the substrate, but the most important thing is to keep the rhizome uncovered. Burying the rhizome completely may cause it to rot.

This aquarium fern is particularly attractive when used on driftwood and rocks, where its delicate green leaves create a natural, forest-like appearance. It works especially well in Nature Aquariums, planted tanks, and low-tech aquascapes.

Emersed and Submerged Growth

Bolbitis Heudelotii is commonly supplied in its emersed (terrestrial) form. The leaves of an emersed plant can look different from the submerged foliage, and you may notice blackish leaf tips or dark spots after receiving the plant.

This is generally normal and does not necessarily indicate poor plant health. Once the plant adapts to underwater conditions and begins producing new submerged leaves, the new growth should develop with a fresh green colour and without the dark tips or spots commonly seen on emersed leaves.

Light, CO₂ & Fertiliser Requirements

Bolbitis Heudelotii is a relatively easy-care aquarium plant with a low light requirement. It can grow successfully under low to moderate lighting, making it suitable for many different aquarium setups.

For faster and healthier growth, providing CO₂ supplementation and liquid fertilisation through the water column can make a significant difference. With sufficient nutrients and CO₂, Bolbitis Heudelotii can also thrive under stronger aquarium lighting.

The plant generally grows best in soft, slightly acidic water, although it is adaptable and can also grow in medium-hard water. This versatility makes it a good option for both beginner and experienced aquascapers.

How to Propagate Bolbitis Heudelotii

Propagation is simple. As the plant develops a creeping rhizome, you can carefully cut the rhizome into sections, ensuring that each section has healthy leaves and roots. New growth will develop from the divided portions.

Bolbitis Heudelotii also tolerates hard pruning, so overgrown plants can be trimmed to maintain the desired shape and size of your aquascape.

Why Choose Bolbitis Heudelotii?

• Beautiful bottle-green pinnate leaves
• Excellent aquatic fern for aquascaping
• Ideal for attaching to rocks and driftwood
• Suitable for Nature Aquariums and planted tanks
• Low light requirement
• Can grow with or without CO₂
• Relatively easy to maintain
• Simple to propagate through rhizome division
• Tolerates pruning and can be shaped to suit your aquascape

Bolbitis Heudelotii Specifications

Bolbitis Heudelotii is an excellent choice if you are looking for a graceful, natural-looking aquarium plant to enhance your hardscape. Its slow and elegant growth, attractive green foliage, and ability to attach to rocks and driftwood make it a versatile plant for both beginner and advanced aquascaping projects.

Upgrade your aquarium setup with the Bolbitis Heudelotii – Order now and experience the difference!