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Bucephalandra Red Cobra
Bucephalandra sp. Red Cobra
Also known as Buce Red Cobra
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Liliopsida›Alismatales›Araceae
Bucephalandra Red Cobra is a striking rhizome-based plant from Southeast Asia featuring deep red to burgundy leaves with distinctive cobweb-like patterns and textured surfaces. This slow-growing epiphyte is prized for its dramatic coloration and compact growth habit, making it ideal for aquascaping focal points. It thrives when attached to hardscape and requires moderate care with stable water parameters.
At a glance
- CO₂
- recommended
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- epiphyte
- Temp
- 72–82°F
- 22–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Compatible livestock
See all 5Non-destructive algae eater; will not damage leaves or rhizome
Peaceful scavenger; helps control algae without harming delicate foliage
Gentle algae eater that respects plants and won't uproot or damage rhizome
Small, peaceful schooling fish that won't disturb plant or substrate
Complementary plant variety; pairs well visually and shares identical care requirements
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Common diseases 4Rhizome Rot, Leaf Melt on Transition, Algae Overgrowth on Leaves, Iron Deficiency
Rhizome Rot
Soft, blackened rhizome; mushy texture; foul odor; leaf loss from attachment point
Ensure rhizome is never buried and water flow is adequate; remove affected portions with sterile tools; improve water circulation and reduce organic buildup
Leaf Melt on Transition
Older leaves turn translucent, mushy, or dissolve within 1–2 weeks after planting
Normal acclimation response; trim affected leaves and maintain stable parameters; new growth will emerge healthy within 2–4 weeks
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green, brown, or black algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced light penetration; stunted appearance
Increase water flow around plant; reduce photoperiod to 8–10 hours; add algae-eating fauna (Amano shrimp, Otocinclus); manually remove with soft brush; avoid excess nutrients
Iron Deficiency
New leaves emerge pale yellow or white with green veins; older leaves remain dark red
Dose liquid iron fertilizer (e.g., Flourish Iron) 2–3 times weekly; ensure CO2 supplementation and adequate lighting to support uptake
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.
At a glance
- CO₂
- recommended
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- epiphyte
- Temp
- 72–82°F22–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
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