INTRODUCTION
Anubias barteri ‘Mini Coin’ is a boutique favorite in the aquascaping world, prized for its exceptionally small, nearly perfectly circular leaves. As the name suggests, the foliage resembles tiny green coins, offering a unique texture compared to the pointed leaves of the standard Anubias nana or ‘Nana Petite’.
It is a slow-growing, incredibly hardy epiphyte that adds a sense of “scale” and detail to any layout, especially nano tanks. If you want a plant that looks high-end but requires almost zero technical maintenance, ‘Mini Coin’ is the gold standard.
QUICK GUIDE
| Feature | Requirement / Detail |
| Difficulty | Very Easy |
| Growth Rate | Very Slow |
| Placement | Foreground / Midground (Attached to wood/rock) |
| Light Requirements | Low to Medium |
| Temperature | 20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F) |
| pH Range | 6.0 – 7.5 |
| CO2 Requirement | Optional |
IN THE WILD
Like most Anubias species, the ‘Mini Coin’ variant traces its lineage back to the shaded riverbanks of Western Africa.
- Growth Habit: In nature, these plants are found clinging to rocks and fallen logs in forest streams. They are often subject to fluctuating water levels, growing both fully submerged and in the high-humidity “splash zone” above the water line.
- Survival Strategy: Its thick, waxy leaves are a defense mechanism against herbivores and help the plant retain moisture during dry spells. This makes them one of the few plants that herbivorous fish (like Goldfish or Cichlids) usually leave alone.
IN THE AQUARIUM
‘Mini Coin’ is the ultimate “low maintenance” plant. It doesn’t require high light or CO2 to survive, though it will grow slightly faster and more compactly with them.
- The Golden Rule: Never bury the rhizome (the thick horizontal stem where the leaves and roots meet) in the substrate. If buried, the rhizome will rot and the plant will die.
- Attachment: It is best used as an epiphyte. You can wedge it into cracks in dragon stone, tie it to driftwood with thread, or use a tiny drop of cyanoacrylate-based super glue gel to secure it.
- Algae Prevention: Because it grows so slowly, the leaves are prone to green spot algae if placed under high light for too long. Shadier spots in the tank are usually ideal.
PROPAGATION
Propagating Anubias is a game of patience and precision. Because the plant grows from a central rhizome, you cannot simply “snip a leaf” to grow a new one.
- Identify the Nodes: Look for the thick, horizontal green “trunk” (the rhizome). You will see roots growing downward and leaves growing upward from this point.
- The Cut: Using a sterilized, sharp blade or aquascaping shears, cut the rhizome into sections.
- The 3-Leaf Rule: For the best chance of survival, ensure each new cutting has at least 3 to 4 healthy leaves and a few existing root strands.
- Recovery: After cutting, the “mother” plant will eventually sprout a new growing point from the last node, while the new cutting will begin to slowly anchor itself to its new surface.
- Avoid Stress: Do not move the cuttings frequently. Anubias thrives on stability; once attached, let it be.
MY OBSERVATIONS
‘Mini Coin’ is the “cheat code” for making a small aquarium look massive. Because the leaves are so small, they create a forced perspective that makes the surrounding hardscape look like a giant mountain range or ancient forest.
Pro-Tip: If you notice the leaves getting dusty or covered in a film, use a soft-bristled paintbrush during your water change to gently “sweep” the leaves. This keeps the plant healthy and ensures it can photosynthesize efficiently despite its slow growth rate
BUYING OPTIONS
We offer Anubias barteri ‘Mini Coin’ in two premium formats to suit your specific aquascaping needs:
1. Tissue Culture
The safest and cleanest way to introduce plants to your tank.
- Pest Free: Guaranteed 100% free of snails, duckweed, algae, and parasites.
- Value: Each cup contains multiple tiny plantlets that can be separated and placed into small crevices throughout your hardscape.
- Best for: High-end scapes, shrimp tanks, and precision detailing.
2. 6×4 Living Wall Mats
For those who want an instant “mature” look.
- Established Growth: These mats consist of the rhizomes already grown into a thick, lush carpet.
- Versatile: Can be laid flat on the substrate (keeping the rhizome above the soil) or attached vertically to the back glass or large driftwood to create a “living wall” effect.
- Best for: Covering large areas quickly or creating an immediate focal point.
