Bucephalandra Red Cobra

Bucephalandra sp. Red Cobra

📍 Southeast Asia

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.

Tank Mates

Amano Shrimp

Non-destructive algae eater; will not damage leaves or rhizome

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Peaceful scavenger; helps control algae without harming delicate foliage

excellent

Otocinclus

Gentle algae eater that respects plants and won't uproot or damage rhizome

good

Ember Tetra

Small, peaceful schooling fish that won't disturb plant or substrate

excellent

Bucephalandra Brownie Ghost

Complementary plant variety; pairs well visually and shares identical care requirements

excellent

Common Diseases

Rhizome Rot

Symptoms

Soft, blackened rhizome; mushy texture; foul odor; leaf loss from attachment point

Treatment

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

Symptoms

Older leaves turn translucent, mushy, or dissolve within 1–2 weeks after planting

Treatment

Normal acclimation response; trim affected leaves and maintain stable parameters; new growth will emerge healthy within 2–4 weeks

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

Green, brown, or black algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced light penetration; stunted appearance

Treatment

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

Symptoms

New leaves emerge pale yellow or white with green veins; older leaves remain dark red

Treatment

Dose liquid iron fertilizer (e.g., Flourish Iron) 2–3 times weekly; ensure CO2 supplementation and adequate lighting to support uptake

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Quick Facts

co2: recommended
lighting: medium
placement: epiphyte
substrate: Epiphyte—attach rhizome to driftwood or rock using thread or glue; do not bury. Benefits from nutrient-rich water column and occasional root tabs near hardscape.
growth rate: slow