Bucephalandra Dark Emerald

🌿 Species Profile Common Name: Dark Emerald Buce Scientific Name: Bucephalandra ‘Dark Emerald’ Plant Type: Rhizome epiphyte Origin: Borneo (cultivated aquarium form) Growth Rate: Slow Difficulty: Easy to moderate Placement: Foreground / midground (on rocks or wood) 🌱 Appearance Compact clumping growth Leaves are: Deep emerald green Slightly glossy with a soft shimmer under light Usually thicker and sturdier than lighter Buce types Size: Height: 4–10 cm (1.5–4 in) Width: tight, slowly spreading clumps It gives a rich, forest-green “jewel plant” look. 🧪 Tank Requirements Temperature: 22–28°C pH: 5.5–7.5 Hardness: Soft to medium Lighting: Low to medium (too much light may cause algae spots) CO₂: Not required but improves growth and leaf quality 🌿 Planting Method Must NOT bury rhizome Attach to: Driftwood Lava rock Hardscape structures Use thread or aquarium-safe glue 🌿 Feeding & Care Absorbs nutrients from water column Benefits from: Mild liquid fertilizers Stable water conditions Very slow grower but long-lived once established Care tips: Avoid sudden parameter changes Clean gently if algae forms on leaves Keep stable lighting for best color 🌱 Propagation Slow: Rhizome division New shoots develop gradually from base 🐟 Aquarium Use Best for: Natural aquascapes Dark green accent zones Driftwood and rock detailing Compatible with: Shrimp Small peaceful fish Nano community tanks