Anubias Barteri 'Coffeefolia': The Textured Beauty of Low-Tech Aquascaping

When it comes to easy, hardy, and visually striking aquarium plants, few species compete with Anubias barteri 'Coffeefolia'. This unique variant of the popular Anubias barteri is prized for its textured, ripple-like leaves and rich, coffee-colored tones that deepen as the plant matures—making it a favorite among aquascapers looking for contrast and durability.

---

What is Anubias Barteri ‘Coffeefolia’?

Anubias barteri 'Coffeefolia' is a slow-growing rhizome plant native to West Africa, and it stands out from other Anubias species due to its bubbled, wrinkled leaves and deep green to bronze hues. The name “Coffeefolia” comes from the plant’s resemblance to the leaves of coffee plants, especially in their color and texture.

This plant is incredibly low maintenance, tolerating a wide range of water parameters, lighting conditions, and aquascaping setups. It’s a fantastic option for beginners and a staple in low-tech planted tanks and aquascapes with hardscape focus.

---

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. 'Coffeefolia'

• Family: Araceae

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Leaf Color: Dark green to bronze, with crinkled texture

• Light Requirement: Low to medium

• CO₂ Requirement: Not necessary

• Placement: Foreground to midground or attached to hardscape

• Height: 4–8 inches (10–20 cm)

• Propagation: By dividing the rhizome

---

Care & Maintenance

? Substrate: Do not bury the rhizome! Attach it to driftwood, rocks, or ornaments using thread, glue, or fishing line.

? Lighting: Thrives in low to medium light. Too much light can encourage algae on its leaves.

? CO₂: Not needed, but can accelerate growth in high-tech setups.

? Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.8

• Hardness: Tolerates a wide range

✂️ Trimming: Rarely needed. Simply trim off dead or old leaves. New leaves emerge slowly but steadily.

---

Why Choose Anubias 'Coffeefolia'?

✅ Unique Aesthetic: Rippled, bronze-toned leaves offer texture and depth
✅ Easy to Grow: Great for beginners and low-tech aquariums
✅ Versatile Placement: Looks fantastic on driftwood, rocks, or decorations
✅ Algae Resistant: Tough leaves are less prone to damage and algae than softer plants
✅ Fish Friendly: Leaves provide perching and grazing surfaces for shrimp and peaceful fish

---

Aquascape Companions

• Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) – Great textural contrast

• Bucephalandra – Adds color and variety in similar conditions

• Cryptocoryne species – Blends well in mid- or background

• Mosses (like Christmas Moss or Java Moss) – Ideal for creating layered scapes

---

Final Thoughts

Anubias barteri 'Coffeefolia' is more than just a hardy plant—it's a textural masterpiece for freshwater aquariums. Whether you're creating a lush jungle aquascape or a minimal, stone-heavy layout, this plant provides long-lasting structure, beauty, and stability.