Lemnalia tree coral, Tree coral, Cauliflower coral
Family
Nephtheidae
Origin
Indo-Pacific; the species name refers to East Africa
Water
saltwater
Temperature
22–26°C
pH
8.1–8.4
Hardness
dKH 8–12
Care level
intermediate
Reef safe
with_caution
Lighting
Moderate to high
Flow
Moderate to strong
Care
Lemnalia africana is a soft tree coral with thin, branching stems ending in clusters of small polyps. It is tan to brown. It ships poorly and can take time to settle. Placement: middle rockwork, in good flow. In the wild these corals usually live in strong currents. Light and flow: moderate to high light and medium to strong flow. Water and supplements: iodine, strontium and trace elements. It suits an established reef. Neither source lists this species; the figures here are LiveAquaria's guidance for the closely related Paralemnalia tree coral. Sources: LiveAquaria (liveaquaria.com/products/paralemnalia-tree-coral). Checked October 2026.
Diet
Photosynthetic. Micro-plankton, baby brine shrimp or filter-feeder foods can help.
Breeding
Cut a branch with a scalpel and attach it to rubble with a rubber band or mesh until it sticks.
Compatibility and tank mates
LiveAquaria rates its relative aggressive: it can release toxins, so give it space from other corals and run activated carbon.
Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.
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