Anubias nana sp. Kirin

Exotic, textured, and wonderfully distinctive — Anubias nana sp. Kirin is a rare and highly sought-after cultivar of Anubias nana, named after the mythical Chinese unicorn (Kirin/Qilin) for its unusual, almost otherworldly leaf texture. The leaves display a striking crinkled, bumpy, or ruffled surface that sets it apart from all other Anubias cultivars, making it a true collector’s plant and a conversation piece in any aquascape.

Overview

Appearance

The Kirin cultivar is immediately recognizable by its deeply textured, crinkled, or bullate leaf surface — the leaf blade is puckered and ruffled in a way that creates a three-dimensional, almost sculptural appearance. The leaves are a rich, deep green with the characteristic glossy Anubias finish. Each leaf is unique in its degree of texture, and the overall effect is a plant that looks like it belongs in a fantasy aquascape. A truly extraordinary cultivar that rewards close inspection.

Water Parameters & Care

• Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
• pH: 6.0 – 8.0
• General Hardness (GH): 3 – 20 dGH
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• CO₂: Not required
• Fertiliser: Benefits from occasional liquid fertiliser

Planting & Placement

Never bury the rhizome in substrate — attach to driftwood or rocks using fishing line, cotton thread, or aquarium-safe glue. Its compact size and extraordinary texture make it ideal as a foreground or midground accent plant, or as a focal point on a small piece of driftwood in a nano or planted aquarium.

Compatibility

Compatible with all freshwater fish and invertebrates. Thick leaves resist most herbivorous fish. Algae can develop on older leaves — Otocinclus, Amano shrimp, and Nerite snails are excellent companions for algae control.

Propagation

Divide the rhizome with a clean, sharp blade, ensuring each section has at least 2–3 leaves. Attach new sections to driftwood or rock. New leaves emerge slowly from the growing tip.

Anubias nana sp. Kirin is a rare collector’s cultivar that brings extraordinary texture and visual interest to any aquascape. Easy to keep, virtually indestructible, and unlike anything else in the planted tank hobby — a true gem for the discerning aquascaper.