Bucephalandra Kedagang
Bucephalandra Kedagang
Bucephalandra Kedagang is one of the most popular and widely available varieties in the Bucephalandra genus, prized for its long, narrow, dark green leaves finely dotted with silvery-white speckling. Native to the rainforests of Borneo, this variety develops a striking blue metallic sheen across its foliage when grown fully submerged, paired with a deep red rhizome that echoes the coloration of the Red Bucephalandra variety. A versatile foreground to midground plant, Kedagang brings understated elegance and easy-care hardiness to any aquascape.
Planting tip: Bucephalandra Kedagang 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 an epiphytic Bucephalandra from Borneo, Kedagang can be planted with the rhizome resting at the substrate surface or attached to wood or rock at any position in the aquarium. Never fully bury the rhizome. This easy, beginner-friendly variety is highly adaptable, thriving under low light yet also responding well to medium to high light with CO₂ supplementation, which helps bring out its best blue metallic coloration. Temperatures between 68 and 79°F and a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 provide ideal conditions. Like all Bucephalandra, it can produce small, delicate white flowers both underwater and above the waterline.
Growing to 2 to 4 inches, with individual leaves reaching roughly 1.5 to 2.5 inches in length, Kedagang occupies the foreground to midground zone of the aquascape. Compared to many other Bucephalandra varieties, Kedagang grows at a notably vigorous pace, steadily branching from its creeping rhizome into a dense, multi-headed colony over time. Regular liquid fertilization supports full leaf coloration and healthy growth.
In the aquascape, Bucephalandra Kedagang is most effective mounted in clusters on driftwood or stone, where its dark, dotted leaves and glimmering blue submerged sheen create a rich, textural backdrop. The red rhizome adds a subtle pop of warm color without requiring demanding red-plant lighting, while its tolerance for low light makes it an excellent choice for shaded areas of the tank where other plants may struggle.
Bucephalandra Kedagang is a hardy, adaptable, and quietly beautiful plant that has earned its place as one of the most trusted Bucephalandra varieties in the hobby. A great choice for beginners and experienced aquascapers alike.
Care & Specifications
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Placement | Foreground to Midground |
| Max Height | 2–4 inches |
| Light Level | Low to Moderate |
| Temperature | 68–79°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| CO2 Needs | Optional |
| Origin | Borneo |
| Notes | Long, narrow dark green leaves with silvery dots. Blue metallic sheen when submerged. Red rhizome. Vigorous grower, hardy, and beginner-friendly. |