Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) is a classic aquascaping plant prized for its delicate, feathery fronds and natural, jungle‑stream look. Native to shaded, flowing waters in Africa, this fern brings a soft, wild feel to aquariums and looks especially striking when attached to driftwood or rocks.
Because Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) grows slowly and doesn’t demand intense light or CO₂, it’s an excellent choice for both beginner and advanced aquarists who want a beautiful, easy‑care feature plant.
Key Features of Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern)
- Botanical name: Bolbitis heudelotii
- Common name: African Water Fern
- Lighting requirements: Around 4–6 hours daily (moderate light; avoid harsh, direct light)
- Care level: Low maintenance / easy to grow
- CO₂: Not required, but growth can improve with added CO₂
- Placement: Best attached to wood or rock, midground to background
- Growth rate: Slow to moderate under good conditions
With its finely divided leaves and rich green colour, Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) adds depth and texture to aquascapes without taking over the tank.
How to Plant and Attach Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern)
One of the most important care tips for Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) is never to bury the rhizome in the substrate. Doing so can cause the plant to rot.
Instead:
- Gently tie or glue the rhizome to driftwood, rocks or other hardscape
- Make sure the rhizome is exposed to water flow and not smothered
- Over time, Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) will naturally attach itself with fine roots
Because it’s so easy to mount, this plant is perfect for creating shaded areas, midground accents and natural‑looking “fern forests” in your aquarium.
Ideal Conditions and Potential Problems
Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) thrives in:
- Soft to moderately soft water
- Slightly acidic to neutral pH
- Gentle to moderate flow
- Shaded or filtered light (too much light can cause algae on the fronds)
Potential issues:
- Can rot if planted directly in the substrate
- May struggle in very hard, alkaline water
- Can collect algae if exposed to strong light and excess nutrients
Keep lighting reasonable, maintain good water quality and avoid burying the rhizome, and Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) will reward you with healthy, lush growth.
Where to Use Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) in Your Aquascape
Because of its graceful, arching fronds, Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) works brilliantly in:
- Nature and jungle‑style aquascapes
- Shrimp and community tanks that appreciate shaded areas
- Midground clumps attached to wood or stone
- Background accents on taller hardscape pieces
It pairs beautifully with mosses, Anubias and other shade‑tolerant plants, creating layered, natural‑looking scapes that fish and shrimp love to explore.
Why Choose Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern)?
Choose Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) if you want:
- A low‑maintenance, CO₂‑optional plant
- A fern that adds movement and texture without constant trimming
- A versatile plant suitable for both nano tanks and large displays
- A natural, wild look that complements driftwood and stone layouts
Enhance your aquarium with the beauty and adaptability of Bolbitis Heudelotii (African Water Fern) and enjoy a hardy, visually striking plant that thrives in a wide range of aquatic setups.
