Bucephalandra 'Blue' (Bucephalandra sordidula 'Blue') care guide

Group

Plants

Other names

Bucephalandra sordidula 'Blue'

Family

Araceae (arum family)

Origin

Riverbanks of Borneo (South-East Asia)

Water

freshwater

Maximum size

10 cm

Temperature

22–28°C

pH

6–7.5

Hardness

2–12 dGH

Care level

beginner

Lighting

Low to moderate light (brighter light deepens the colour); CO2 not needed

Care

Bucephalandra sordidula 'Blue' is a sought-after Bornean aroid with shimmering, blue-tinged leaves whose sheen changes with the lighting. It grows slowly to about 5–10 cm and keeps its shape with little trimming. Tropica rates it easy, with low light and CO2 needs, and suitable for beginners and experienced keepers. Use it in the foreground or midground. In nature Bucephalandra grows on rocks and wood in Bornean streams, much like Anubias. Attach it to stone or driftwood with thread or glue, and never bury the creeping rhizome, which rots if covered. Stronger light intensifies the blue colour. Water figures are our estimate, not from the sources. Sources: Tropica (tropica.com/en/plants). Checked October 2026.

Breeding

Divide the rhizome with a sharp blade into pieces with a few leaves each and attach them separately. Plants also branch by themselves over time.

Compatibility and tank mates

Bucephalandra are tough and seldom eaten by fish; they suit shrimp tanks, nano tanks and community tanks alike, including those with some cichlids. Avoid fish that dig around the hardscape and dislodge the plants.

Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.