RTG Bucephalandra ‘Theia’

This small to medium-sized, very compact growing Bucephalandra is produced under the trade name “Theia Green” in nurseries and tissue culture labs. Its exact origin and species identity are unknown to us, but all Bucephalandra species are native to the island of Borneo, where they occur as flow-adapted plants (rheophytes) on rock in the flood zone of streams. Bucephalandra sp. “Theia Green” forms an ascending, at least 3.5 cm long and 2 mm thick, strongly branched rhizome and elongated-elliptical, short stemmed, about 6 cm long, 1.4 cm wide, relatively soft leaves with a round tip. While the emersed leaves are dark olive to light green, the submerged leaves also show reddish tones and blue-green shimmer. The newly sprouting leaves are light orange-brown. Under water, the somewhat shiny leaves are covered with many silvery spots. Over time, the plant forms a many-headed group about 8 cm high and at least 18 cm wide through many side branches. White inflorescences appear not infrequently.
Like practically all Bucephalandras, “Theia Green” is primarily a perching plant on rock or wood. However, it can also be attached to the substrate, but do not bury the rhizome because it could rot. The roots will then grow into the substrate by themselves and the plant can benefit from the nutrients in the substrate. The plant develops most beautifully with medium light intensity and a constant supply of CO2 and nutrients. Growth is slow. Bucephalandras are propagated by cutting off side shoots or head shoots, which also promotes branching of the shoots.
We recommend to put Bucephalandras into already cycled aquariums. It is best to leave the plants in peace so they can grow. Sudden changes of parameters may lead to shedding of leaves, normally, however, the plants regrow slowly and produce new shoots on the rhizome.

Bucephalandra sp. “Theia Green” works best on or in front of the hardscape in the aquarium midground. It offers an attractive appearance with its compact growth and varying colour shades.