Bucephalandra sp. "Motleyana Red"

Rare red Bucephalandra 'Motleyana Red' used as foreground aquarium plant

Bucephalandra sp. ‘Motleyana Red’ is a rare Bucephalandra aquarium plant admired for its reddish-brown leaves with subtle iridescent highlights that shimmer under aquarium lighting. This cultivar adds unique colour contrast to aquascapes, making it an ideal foreground plant for nano tanks, shrimp tanks, and detailed aquascaping layouts.

As an epiphyte aquarium plant, it should be attached to driftwood, rocks, or hardscape decor rather than planted in substrate to prevent rhizome rot. It thrives under low to medium light, while CO₂ injection, though not required, enhances its growth rate, colour vibrancy, and overall health.

Growing slowly to a compact height of 3-6 cm, Bucephalandra ‘Motleyana Red’ forms dense, bushy clusters, perfect for creating natural aquascape highlights or accenting bonsai driftwood branches. Its thick, leathery leaves are resistant to grazing fish, and the plant is shrimp-safe, making it suitable for community tanks.

How big does Bucephalandra ‘Motleyana Red’ grow?
It stays compact, reaching 3-6 cm tall, making it perfect for nano tanks and foreground layouts.

Does it require CO₂?
CO₂ is not essential but enhances growth and intensifies its red leaf colouration.

Can it be planted in substrate?
No - it is a Red epiphyte aquarium plant so it must be attached to wood or rocks, keeping the rhizome above substrate to avoid rot.

Is it suitable for shrimp tanks?
Absolutely - it is shrimp-safe Bucephalandra, providing grazing surfaces and enhancing tank aesthetics.

Why is Bucephalandra ‘Motleyana Red’ popular among aquascapers?
Its rare red hues, compact growth, and epiphytic nature make it ideal for detailed and natural aquascapes.