No photo yet
Sign in to submit the first photo
Bucephalandra Motleyana
Bucephalandra motleyana
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Araceae
📍 Borneo (Sarawak, Malaysia)
One of the first formally described Bucephalandra species, with elongated, slightly undulating dark green to brownish-green leaves that display a purple-blue iridescence in good light. A classic in the Buce world and widely considered a reference variety. Slightly larger than many hobbyist Buces and forms attractive clumps over time. Excellent for attaching to larger driftwood branches.
Tank Mates
Peaceful algae grazers that won't damage plant leaves and help maintain tank cleanliness
Gentle invertebrates that graze algae without harming plants; thrive in similar water parameters
Small, peaceful schooling fish that won't uproot or damage delicate plant structures
Excellent companion plant with similar low-light tolerance and slow growth rate
Compatible plant species that creates layered aquascaping and provides additional shelter
Peaceful, small fish that won't disturb rooted plants and appreciate planted tank environments
Common Diseases
Rhizome Rot
Blackening or mushy rhizome, leaf loss, foul odor from plant base
Improve water circulation, reduce organic buildup, ensure rhizome is not buried in substrate, perform partial water changes, consider removing affected portions and re-attaching healthy sections
Nutrient Deficiency
Stunted growth, yellowing or pale leaves, reduced iridescence
Dose liquid all-in-one fertilizer (Thrive, Flourish, or equivalent) according to package directions; ensure adequate lighting to support photosynthesis
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green or brown algae coating leaf surfaces, reduced light penetration
Increase water flow around plant, reduce lighting duration if excessive, add algae-eating fish or shrimp (Otocinclus, Red Cherry Shrimp), manually remove algae with soft brush
Melting
Sudden leaf deterioration and dissolution after planting, transparent or translucent leaves
Common during acclimation; maintain stable water parameters, ensure gradual light increase, provide consistent temperature (22–28°C), be patient as plant typically recovers within 2–4 weeks
Community Photos
0 photosPhotos are added when members log a tank with this species and upload a photo in their tank journal. Add your own tank to contribute.
No photos yet — add a tank with Bucephalandra Motleyana to be the first!
Sign in to vote.
Tips from the community 💡
0 tipsReal experiences, care advice, and keeper notes. Finn learns from these too.
Sign in to share your experience.
No community tips yet — be the first to share your knowledge!
Quick Facts
- co2
- Not required
- light
- Low to medium
- max size
- 8–15 cm (3–6 in) tall
- placement
- Midground
- substrate
- None — attach to hardscape
- growth rate
- Slow
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.0–7.5
- notes
- Formally described species — a benchmark variety for Bucephalandra collectors.
- hardness
- 0–10 dGH
- temperature
- 162–180°F (72–82°C)