Charming, distinctive, and wonderfully named — Bucephalandra Apple Leaf is a delightful Bucephalandra variety from Borneo, prized for its rounded, apple-shaped leaves that give it a uniquely compact and tidy appearance. With its characteristic iridescent sheen and easy-going nature, the Apple Leaf is a wonderful choice for aquarists looking for a compact, attractive Bucephalandra for foreground and nano aquarium use. Overview Attribute Details Common Name Bucephalandra Apple Leaf Scientific Name Bucephalandra sp. ‘Apple Leaf’ Origin Borneo (Kalimantan, Indonesia) Growth Rate Slow Maximum Height 4 – 10 cm (1.5 – 4 inches) Difficulty Beginner – Easy Placement Foreground to midground; nano aquariums Appearance Bucephalandra Apple Leaf is distinguished by its rounded, broadly oval to almost circular leaves that resemble a stylized apple shape — compact, symmetrical, and neatly formed. The leaves are a rich, deep green with a subtle blue-green iridescent sheen that shimmers under aquarium lighting. New leaves often emerge with a reddish or bronze tint before maturing to deep green. The compact, rounded leaf shape and tidy growth habit make this variety particularly well-suited to nano aquariums and detailed foreground plantings. Water Parameters & Care Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C) pH: 5.0 – 7.5 General Hardness (GH): 1 – 15 dGH Lighting: Low to moderate CO₂: Not required, but benefits from CO₂ injection Fertiliser: Benefits from regular liquid fertiliser with micronutrients Planting & Placement Never bury the rhizome in substrate — attach to driftwood or rocks using fishing line, cotton thread, or aquarium-safe glue. Its compact, rounded leaves make it ideal for foreground placement and nano aquariums where its charming apple-leaf shape can be appreciated up close. Compatibility Compatible with all freshwater fish and invertebrates. Safe for shrimp tanks. Maintain moderate lighting and good water flow to minimize algae growth on leaves. Propagation Divide the rhizome with a clean, sharp blade, ensuring each section has at least 2–3 leaves. Attach new sections to driftwood or rock and allow to establish. Bucephalandra Apple Leaf is a charming and compact plant that brings rounded elegance and iridescent beauty to any aquascape. Hardy, adaptable, and always delightful — a wonderful choice for nano aquarium enthusiasts and Bucephalandra collectors alike.
