Bucephalandra sp. Theia

Ethereal, iridescent, and hauntingly beautiful — Bucephalandra sp. Theia is a rare and highly sought-after Bucephalandra variety from Borneo, named after the Greek Titaness of light and shining. True to its name, the Theia displays a spectacular iridescent sheen — shifting between blue, green, and purple depending on the angle of light — that gives it an almost otherworldly, luminous quality unlike any other aquatic plant.

Overview

Appearance

Bucephalandra sp. Theia displays oval to slightly elongated leaves with a spectacular multi-tonal iridescent sheen that shifts between blue, green, and purple as the viewing angle changes. The base leaf colour is a deep, rich green, but the iridescent overlay transforms it into something truly extraordinary under aquarium lighting. New leaves often emerge with a reddish or bronze tint before maturing to their characteristic iridescent colouration. The overall effect is a plant that seems to glow and shift colour with every movement of light.

Water Parameters & Care

• Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
• pH: 5.0 – 7.5
• General Hardness (GH): 1 – 15 dGH
• Lighting: Low to moderate — directional lighting maximizes the iridescent colour-shifting effect
• CO₂: Not required, but benefits from CO₂ injection
• Fertiliser: Benefits from regular liquid fertiliser with micronutrients

Planting & Placement

Never bury the rhizome in substrate — attach to driftwood or rocks using fishing line, cotton thread, or aquarium-safe glue. Best placed where aquarium lighting hits the leaves at an angle to maximize the iridescent colour-shifting effect.

Compatibility

Compatible with all freshwater fish and invertebrates. Safe for shrimp tanks. Maintain moderate lighting and good water flow to minimize algae growth on leaves.

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 and allow to establish.

Bucephalandra sp. Theia is a luminous and extraordinary plant that brings an almost magical, colour-shifting iridescence to any aquascape. Hardy, adaptable, and endlessly captivating — a true gem for collectors and planted tank enthusiasts.