Caring for anubias roots

[Lexat]

I have a friend with an anubias and it's got roots sprouting out near the top. Never seen this before - always figured they grew from the rhizome. Does the plant propagate like this?

[Giggletons]

Ha! Thanks sgooosh

o yea, they'll do alright in the dirt, just don't expect them to look their best, they'll kinda melt away then regrow, also try root tabs, they seem to like those

[anglerman]

I have a few Anubias varieties, none of which resemble your plant, so I'm inclined to agree with Sqooosh's assessment. Propagation in Anubias typically involves cutting a section of the rhizome with leaves - I've done it with my own plants. For instance, I could split this one into two separate plants if I wanted.

[Lexat]

I've had my fair share of Anubias varieties, and I can confidently say that yours doesn't quite match the ones I've got. If someone with more experience, like Sqooosh, says it's something else, I'd be inclined to agree.

When it comes to propagating Anubias, I've found that cutting off a section with rhizomes and leaves works a treat. I've got one here that I could easily subdivide into two plants.

A V-shaped notch cut in the rhizome can also encourage a new leaf stalk to grow.

[anglerman]

Mine are growing at a snail's pace, so I haven't gotten around to chopping them yet. I've got some in cold water tanks, which probably isn't helping. I did come across a post here about growing them as terrestrial plants and they might even bloom. Not on my watch, though - I tried that once and ended up killing one. Maybe they'd thrive in some steamy sauna with crazy heat and humidity. My attempt ended with the poor thing turning all dry and brittle, then just dropping dead.

[Lexat]

I'm still waiting for my anubias to grow faster, some are in cold water tanks and it's a slow process. I did come across a method to grow them as terrestrial plants, apparently they can blossom that way. I tried it once but it didn't end well - my plant turned dry and crumbly, and it didn't survive. I'm guessing they need a lot of heat and humidity to thrive, maybe in a sauna-like environment. I'd love to know more about growing them as terrestrials, maybe I'll have better luck next time.

[anglerman]

I simply planted it in water, leaving the leaves above the surface.

[rockyfox]

I recall reading that moving a plant from water to land can be super tough on it, it's like a shock to the system and can be fatal. I think I came across it on some aquarium site, can't remember which one though.

[boomer]

Honestly, I'm not entirely convinced that's a crypt, although it's possible. The photo isn't very clear, but to me, it looks more like an Anubias. Would you be able to post a better picture of the plant?

[Lexat]

I'm leaning towards Anubias barterii, seems like a good match. Never seen roots sprouting above the rhizome before, but I suppose it's possible.