Bucephalandra 'Neo' - Rare Plant

Bucephalandra ‘Neo’ is a rare and classic epiphyte plant known for its dark blue, deep red, and metallic-toned leaves. Under strong lighting and stable aquarium conditions, the foliage develops intense iridescent highlights that shimmer with shades of navy, burgundy, and purple.

Compared to more common Bucephalandra varieties, ‘Neo’ displays much darker and richer colouration with stronger blue and red tones. The leaves are typically compact and rounded. It is considered a medium-grade Bucephalandra, and not commonly found in the hobby, making it more exclusive to collectors.

Like other Bucephalandra species, ‘Neo’ grows slowly from a creeping rhizome and should be attached to wood or stone rather than planted into substrate. It performs well in low-tech aquariums but develops its best colouration and strongest growth under stable CO₂ injection, regular fertilisation, and moderate lighting.

Plant in substrate or attach the plant to hardscape such as driftwood or rocks, allowing the rhizome to be exposed to flowing water. This plant is well-suited for low-tech set ups, but an RGB light will dramatically help to bring out colouration of the leaves.

A good balance of light and nutrients is important to control algae growth on this plant. Bucephalandra prefer lower fertilisation levels, as they are susceptible to over-fertilisation. They also prefer lower levels of light. CO2 injection is not essential but will help promote growth and health.

To propagate, cut the rhizome with at least three leaves replant.