Plant Profile Common Name: Bucephalandra Theia Buce ‘Theia’ is a low-tech, beginner-friendly aquarium plant with soft, broad leaves that display a dark olive to reddish-brown coloration. This variety is highly prized for its pronounced iridescent sheen, which becomes most vibrant when the plant is placed under high-quality aquarium LED lighting. Highly versatile, this epiphytic plant can be grown submerged or emersed, usually attached to hardscape such as driftwood or rocks rather than being buried in traditional aquarium substrate. It's a sophisticated accent for the midground of freshwater aquascapes, slowly sprouting from its rhizome to create a dense, colorful colony over time within a planted tank. Key Features & Notes Unlike the narrower leaf variants, ‘Theia’ provides a softer, fuller look that fills out midground gaps between rocks and wood beautifully. Under stable conditions, the mature foliage develops deep earthy tones that contrast sharply against bright green aquarium plants. This is one of the most durable species in the hobby and thrives in shaded areas. It is an ideal choice for aquascapes where other plants might struggle. It is perfectly at home fully submerged in an aquarium or emersed in a high-humidity terrarium, vivarium, or paludarium. Care Tips & Preparation Bucephalandra is an epiphytic plant that should be attached to rocks or driftwood. Never bury the rhizome in substrate, as this will cause the plant to rot and melt. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and clear away all rockwool from the roots. For a deep dive on prepping potted plants, click here. Avoid making drastic changes to your water parameters or lighting. Unstable conditions are the primary cause of leaf melt in new specimens. While this plant is hardy and low-maintenance, CO2 injection will yield much faster growth. We recommend researching your specific water chemistry to ensure your plant thrives. Final size and coloration depend entirely on your specific aquarium conditions. Please note that photos are a representation, and individual plants may vary. Please research appropriately to ensure your plant thrives. Additional Information Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth! Family Name: AraceaeOrigin: Borneo (Endemic)Skill Level: EasyGrowth Rate: SlowLight: Low to MediumCO2: Not necessary but recommendedpH Range: 6.0 – 7.5Propagation: Divide the rhizome with sharp scissors
