Anubias Barteri Jumbo
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“Jumbo” is not an official botanical variety name (like var. nana, var. glabra, etc.), but a trade / hobbyist term for Anubias barteri plants that are large in leaf size, large rhizome, or mature specimens.
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These are often just big forms of Anubias barteri var. barteri (or another variety of barteri) rather than dwarf forms. Their leaves and overall size are substantially larger than nana / petite forms.
From local sources:
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Stoffels Anubias barteri var. barteri is listed at 15‑30 cm height
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Anubias barteri var. glabra has spear‑shaped leaves up to ~21 cm long, and the plants can reach large height (30‑50 cm in some cases) in aquariums.
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Dennerle offers Anubias barteri XXL (“solitaires”) as specimen / centrepiece plants for larger tanks.
So “jumbo” typically means something like these: larger leaves, more substantial rhizomes or roots, often used in mid‑ to background of aquariums rather than foreground.
Care and Requirements for Jumbo Anubias barteri
Because of its larger size, the “jumbo” barteri has slightly different practical needs vs. the smaller nana / petite forms:
| Parameter |
Ideal / Notes |
| Light |
Low to moderate light. Strong light may cause algae on leaves (which are large and often slower to shed algae). Shade or diffused light helps. It tolerates low light quite well. (Same as smaller forms, just that there’s more surface for algae.) |
| Water parameters |
Similar to smaller barteri: approx 22‑28 °C, pH between about 6.0‑8.0 (some sources show 5‑9), hardness tolerant. |
| CO₂ / fertilisation |
Not required, but if you have CO₂ and nutrients available, larger plants will benefit and may grow more robustly. But growth is still relatively slow. |
| Placement |
Midground or background in aquarium. Also good attached to rocks or large driftwood. The rhizome must not be buried in substrate (can cause rot). Secure it if needed (tie, clip, glue) until it anchors itself. |
| Pruning / maintenance |
Remove old or damaged leaves to prevent decay and algae buildup. Because it's slower growing, damage recovers slowly. |
| Growth rate |
Slow. Do not expect fast spread or fast leaf turnover. Big leaves grow, but over many weeks or months. |
Pros / Advantages of Jumbo Barteri
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Striking foliage: large, often thick and robust leaves give a bold look in the aquarium.
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Very hardy: tolerates a wide range of conditions. Good for beginners or for tanks with fish that might nibble (leaves are tougher).
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Good for medium / large tanks: can provide good coverage, contrast among other plants, or serve as a focal point.
Cons / Challenges
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Slow growth: it takes time to establish and fill space. If a large leaf is damaged or becomes covered in algae, replacement takes time.
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Algae issues on large leaves: because of the size, algae removal can be harder. Need to ensure good water circulation, regular maintenance.
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Space: needs more room to fit nicely; if used in too small a tank, jumbo leaves may crowd out other plants or reduce light penetration for lower plants.
How “Jumbo” compares with Nana / Petite
| Feature |
Nana / Petite |
Jumbo / Large Barteri |
| Leaf size |
Small, compact |
Large, bold foliage |
| Growth rate |
Very slow |
Still slow, possibly slightly faster leaf growth if conditions are good |
| Light sensitivity |
Less issue with light because leaves are small; less algae accumulation |
Larger leaves show algae more, light needs to be managed to avoid burn or algae |
| Tank placement |
Foreground / attached to hardscape |
Mid‑ or background; attached or free depending on rhizome size |
| Visual impact |
Subtle, decorative accents |
Strong focal or structural plant |
Sample Local Availability and Price
From Pretoria / Gauteng / South Africa sources:
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Stoffels – Anubias barteri var. barteri listed ~ R249.95. Height ~15‑30 cm.
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Nature Boys has Anubias barteri var. barteri 25‑45 cm tall, rhizome of 10‑15 cm or more. ~ R75 for smaller rhizome bits? (Though condition/size probably influences price a lot)
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Heldereef Aquatics has “Anubias barteri Large” which is suited for medium to large aquarium
So if you want a true large / “jumbo” specimen, expect higher price than nana/petite, but depends a lot on size and condition.
