Bolbitis heudelotii (XL) is a majestic aquatic fern known for its elegant, translucent green fronds that sway beautifully in the current. Its finely divided, feather-like leaves grow from creeping rhizomes that anchor easily to driftwood or rocks, creating a striking centerpiece in larger aquariums. The “XL” form refers to its mature size and robust growth, producing larger, broader fronds that bring a lush, tropical aesthetic to the aquascape.
Highly prized for its natural grace and texture, Bolbitis heudelotii thrives best in soft, slightly acidic water with gentle flow. Though slow-growing, it rewards patience with long-lasting, healthy fronds and exceptional visual depth. Ideal for midground to background placement, it pairs beautifully with mosses, Anubias, and other shade-tolerant plants. Avoid burying the rhizome in substrate — attach it securely to hardscape for best results.
Plant Information
Type: Rhizomatous Fern
Origin: Africa
(Found in shaded forest streams and rivers across West and Central Africa.)
Growth Rate: Slow to Medium
(Steady under stable conditions; growth improves with soft water and gentle flow.)
Height: 15 – 40+ cm
(Larger “XL” specimens produce long, arching fronds suitable for background use.)
Light Demand: Low to Medium
(Prefers subdued lighting; brighter conditions may cause algae on older leaves.)
CO₂ Requirement: Low to Medium
(Does well without added CO₂, but responds with fuller, faster growth when supplemented.)
Bolbitis heudelotii (XL) is a majestic aquatic fern known for its elegant, translucent green fronds that sway beautifully in the current. Its finely divided, feather-like leaves grow from creeping rhizomes that anchor easily to driftwood or rocks, creating a striking centerpiece in larger aquariums. The “XL” form refers to its mature size and robust growth, producing larger, broader fronds that bring a lush, tropical aesthetic to the aquascape.
Highly prized for its natural grace and texture, Bolbitis heudelotii thrives best in soft, slightly acidic water with gentle flow. Though slow-growing, it rewards patience with long-lasting, healthy fronds and exceptional visual depth. Ideal for midground to background placement, it pairs beautifully with mosses, Anubias, and other shade-tolerant plants. Avoid burying the rhizome in substrate — attach it securely to hardscape for best results.
Plant Information
Type: Rhizomatous Fern
Origin: Africa
(Found in shaded forest streams and rivers across West and Central Africa.)
Growth Rate: Slow to Medium
(Steady under stable conditions; growth improves with soft water and gentle flow.)
Height: 15 – 40+ cm
(Larger “XL” specimens produce long, arching fronds suitable for background use.)
Light Demand: Low to Medium
(Prefers subdued lighting; brighter conditions may cause algae on older leaves.)
CO₂ Requirement: Low to Medium
(Does well without added CO₂, but responds with fuller, faster growth when supplemented.)
