BUCEPHALANDRA SPEC. 'SERIMBU BROWN' – Epiphytic Foreground Aquarium Plant with Olive Green and Reddish-Brown Leaves
Bucephalandra spec. 'Serimbu Brown' is one of the first Bucephalandra varieties imported from West Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo. Its name comes from the Serimbu region of origin. Based on recent botanical studies, this beautiful plant is likely part of the Bucephalandra pygmaea group, known for its compact size and slow growth. The narrow, elliptical leaves display striking olive green to reddish-brown hues, which shift depending on light intensity.
Belonging to the Araceae family, like Anubias and Cryptocoryne, this plant occasionally produces underwater inflorescences in aquariums. Due to its slow growth rate and low demand for light and CO₂, it is perfect for low-tech tanks, shrimp aquariums, nano setups, and natural-style aquascapes. It should be attached to driftwood or stones, with the rhizome always kept above the substrate.
Main features:
• Elliptical olive-green to reddish-brown leaves with subtle waves
• Slow, compact growth – ideal for small or detailed aquascapes
• Best placed in foreground or midground areas
• Epiphytic growth – must be tied to wood or rocks, not planted in soil
• Hardy and tolerant of low light and low CO₂
• Occasionally produces underwater flowers
• Excellent for shrimp tanks, nature-style layouts, and low-maintenance setups
Plant profile:
Genus: Bucephalandra
Species: sp. 'Serimbu Brown'
Family: Araceae
Origin: Borneo
Light: medium – low
Temperature: 20 – 28 °C
Growth rate: slow
Height: up to 8 cm
Placement: foreground
pH: 5 – 8
Water hardness: soft to moderately hard
CO₂: 0 – 20 mg/l
Propagation: rhizome division
Why choose Bucephalandra 'Serimbu Brown':
A classic and elegant choice for aquascapers looking to add refined color, texture, and structure to their tanks. Easy to care for, this variety offers both beauty and resilience with minimal effort.