Bolbitis Heteroclita Asiatica

Bolbitis Heteroclita Asiatica — A Rare & Elegant Aquatic Fern

Graceful, rare, and strikingly beautiful, Bolbitis heteroclita var. asiatica is a stunning aquatic fern from the fast-flowing streams and rivers of Southeast Asia. With its deeply lobed, dark green fronds and elegant, arching growth habit, this is a plant that brings a lush, prehistoric quality to any aquascape — reminiscent of ancient forest floors submerged beneath crystal-clear water.

Unlike many aquarium plants, Bolbitis heteroclita asiatica is a true epiphyte — it attaches to hardscape (rocks, driftwood, lava rock) rather than being planted in substrate, making it an incredibly versatile and low-maintenance addition to any planted tank or aquascape.

Care at a Glance

• Common Name: Asian Bolbitis, Bolbitis Asiatica
• Scientific Name: Bolbitis heteroclita var. asiatica
• Origin: Southeast Asia (fast-flowing streams and rivers)
• Growth Type: Epiphyte — attach to hardscape, do not bury rhizome
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Height: 15 – 40 cm depending on conditions
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• Temperature: 20 – 28°C (68 – 82°F)
• Lighting: Low to medium — thrives in shaded conditions
• CO₂: Not required, but benefits from supplementation
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Planting & Setup Tips

Do not bury the rhizome in substrate — this will cause it to rot. Instead, attach Bolbitis heteroclita asiatica to driftwood, rocks, or lava rock using fishing line, cotton thread, or aquarium-safe glue. Once established, the roots will grip the hardscape naturally.

This species appreciates moderate to good water flow, which replicates its natural fast-flowing stream habitat and helps deliver nutrients to its leaves. It thrives in shaded or low-light areas of the aquascape, making it ideal for positioning under taller plants or in the shadow of hardscape elements.

Lighting & Fertilisation

Low to medium lighting is ideal — high light can cause algae growth on the slow-growing fronds. Liquid fertiliser supplementation (particularly iron and micronutrients) promotes healthy, dark green growth. CO₂ injection will accelerate growth and improve frond quality, though it is not strictly required.

Aquascape Uses

Perfect for mid-ground and background placement in Nature Aquarium and Iwagumi-style aquascapes. Its dark, deeply lobed fronds provide excellent contrast against lighter green plants and bright hardscape. Also an outstanding choice for shrimp tanks, biotope aquascapes, and low-tech planted tanks.

🌿 Photos are for reference only. Actual plants may vary slightly in size and appearance — all plants are healthy and ready to grow!