Plant Profile Buce ‘Brownie Purple’ is a beautiful, low-tech aquarium plant known for its rich, dark green leaves and striking purple undertones. This variety features elegant teardrop-shaped foliage with a notably glossy surface that reflects light beautifully when submerged. 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. Key Features & Notes The small leaves offer a distinct teardrop shape and a high-shine finish, providing a premium look for fine-scale detailing. Under quality aquarium LED lighting, the dark green leaves reveal deep purple highlights that intensify as the plant matures. This is one of the most durable species in the hobby and thrives in shaded areas. It is an ideal choice for planted tanks where other plants might struggle. Care & Planting Instructions Bucephalandra is an epiphytic plant that should be attached to rocks or driftwood using aquarium-safe glue or thread; never bury the horizontal rhizome in substrate, as this will cause the plant to rot and melt. Avoid making drastic changes to your water parameters or lighting because unstable conditions are the primary cause of leaf melt in new specimens. While this plant is hardy and low-maintenance in standard low-light aquarium plant setups, CO2 injection and regular liquid fertilizing will yield much faster growth and richer iridescence. Final size and coloration depend entirely on your specific aquarium conditions; please note that photos are a representation, and individual plants may vary. Quick Facts Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth! Attribute Specification Scientific Name Bucephalandra sp. 'Brownie Purple' Common Name(s) Buce Brownie Purple, Brownie Purple Family Araceae Plant Type Epiphyte (Rhizome) Care Difficulty Beginner / Easy (Low-Tech Compatible) Light Requirement Low to Medium CO2 Requirement Not Required (Accelerates growth & color density) Placement / Usage Foreground Detail, Nano Accents, Hardscape Crevices Height / Size 1"–2.5" (2.5–6.0 cm) Growth Rate Slow Water Parameters pH 6.0–7.5 | Temperature 68°F–80°F (20°C–26°C) Propagation Method Rhizome Division (Separate with sharp shears) Origin Borneo (Endemic) Frequently Asked Questions 1. Why is my Bucephalandra melting? Bucephalandra melt can occur after changes in water chemistry, temperature, or lighting. If the rhizome remains firm, keep it attached to hardscape while the plant acclimates and produces new submerged growth. 2. Can I plant Bucephalandra in substrate? Bucephalandra is an epiphyte, so never bury its rhizome in substrate. Attach it to driftwood or rocks, or wedge the roots into hardscape while keeping the rhizome exposed. 3. Is Bucephalandra ‘Brownie Purple’ beginner-friendly? Yes. Bucephalandra ‘Brownie Purple’ is a beginner-friendly, low-light aquarium plant that grows without specialized substrate or pressurized CO₂, making it well-suited for low-tech planted aquariums.
