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PlantbeginnerFreshwater

Bucephalandra Theia Green

Bucephalandra sp.

PlantaeTracheophytaMagnoliopsidaAraceae

Variety of Bucephalandra · theia green

📍 Borneo (captive-propagated)

Ask Finn

One of the most popular Bucephalandra varieties, known for its oval to elliptical dark green leaves with a striking blue-green iridescent shimmer when light catches the leaf surface. Slower growing than many stem plants but extremely durable once established. Like all Buces, it must be attached to hardscape — burying the rhizome will cause rot. A must-have for collectors of rare epiphytes.

Common Diseases

Rhizome Rot

Symptoms

Blackening or softening of the rhizome, leaf yellowing, plant deterioration despite good water conditions

Treatment

Ensure the rhizome is never buried in substrate; it must be attached to hardscape and exposed to water flow. Remove affected portions with sterile tools and reattach to clean rock or driftwood. Improve water circulation and reduce organic waste.

Algae Overgrowth

Symptoms

Green, brown, or black algae coating leaves, reducing light penetration and photosynthesis

Treatment

Reduce lighting duration to 8-10 hours daily, increase water changes, and manually remove algae with a soft brush. Introduce algae-eating shrimp or fish like Red Cherry Shrimp or Otocinclus. Avoid excess nutrients that fuel algae growth.

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Stunted growth, pale or yellowing leaves, particularly in low-light setups without fertilization

Treatment

Dose liquid all-in-one fertilizers (e.g., containing NPK and trace elements) 2-3 times weekly according to product instructions. Perform regular water changes to replenish nutrients. Consider adding root tabs if using nutrient-poor substrate.

Melting

Symptoms

Rapid leaf deterioration and transparency, usually after sudden environmental changes

Treatment

Maintain stable water parameters (pH 5.0-7.5, temperature 22-28°C) and avoid drastic changes. Ensure adequate lighting and water circulation. The plant typically recovers within 2-4 weeks if conditions stabilize.

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Quick Facts

co2
Not required (improves growth and colour)
light
Low to medium
max size
5–10 cm (2–4 in) tall
placement
Foreground to midground
substrate
None — attach to rock or driftwood
growth rate
Slow

Water it likes

ph
5.0–7.5
notes
Blue iridescence most visible under bright LED at certain angles. Soft, slightly acidic water brings out best colour.
hardness
0–10 dGH
temperature
162–180°F (72–82°C)

Stats

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Growing in0 tanks