Bucephalandra Catherinae "Dark Carpet"

Bucephalandra Catherinae "Dark Carpet"

Bucephalandra Catherinae Dark Carpet is the darkest-toned member of the Catherinae group, featuring very compact, deep dark leaves that make it ideal for low-growing, carpeting use on hardscape. The dark, dense leaves create a naturally ground-covering effect on flat stones and low pieces of wood, producing a carpet-like display of deep Bucephalandra foliage that provides rich visual texture at the foreground level.

Planting tip: Bucephalandra Catherinae "Dark Carpet" can be planted with the rhizome resting at the substrate surface, or attached to driftwood, rock, or other hardscape at any position in the aquarium. Never fully bury the rhizome under substrate, as this will cause rot. If attaching to hardscape, use cotton thread or aquarium-safe adhesive to secure it, and the plant will anchor itself naturally over time.

As a Catherinae-group Bucephalandra from Indonesia, Dark Carpet can be planted with the rhizome resting at the substrate surface or attached to hardscape at any position in the aquarium. Never fully bury the rhizome. This easy-care variety grows well in low to moderate lighting with optional CO₂ supplementation. Temperatures between 72 and 82°F and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.4 provide comfortable growing conditions. Like all Bucephalandra, Dark Carpet can produce small, delicate white flowers both underwater and above the waterline.

Growing to just 1 to 2 inches with a compact, spreading habit, Dark Carpet is best suited to flat or broadly-shaped hardscape surfaces where the carpet effect can develop naturally over time. Regular liquid fertilization supports healthy growth and the depth of the dark leaf color.

In the aquascape, Bucephalandra Catherinae Dark Carpet creates a unique foreground effect — a dense, dark carpet of Bucephalandra foliage on hardscape that mimics the appearance of a moss carpet while maintaining the distinctive Bucephalandra leaf structure. On flat slate, smooth stone, or low-profile driftwood, multiple plants grouped together develop into a genuinely impressive carpeting display.

Bucephalandra Catherinae Dark Carpet is a unique and beautiful carpeting plant for hardscape attachment. Dark, dense, and endlessly appealing in the foreground.

Care & Specifications