Bucephalandra “NEO.

1. Overview

• Scientific genus: Bucephalandra

• Trade name: Bucephalandra NEO

• Family: Araceae

• Origin: Borneo (endemic river systems)

• Growth type: Rhizomatous, epiphytic aquatic plant

“NEO” is a trade cultivar name, not a formally described species. It is typically used for compact Bucephalandra with modern-looking leaf structure and enhanced coloration under controlled aquarium conditions.

2. Physical Characteristics

• Leaves:

  • Medium length, narrow to slightly elongated

  • Smooth to lightly undulated margins (less wavy than “Green Wavy”)

  • Color ranges from deep green to blue-green; may show metallic or purple sheen under strong light

• Leaf surface: Slightly glossy

• Size:

  • Height: ~5–8 cm (2–3 in)

  • Width: Compact, tight growth habit

• Rhizome:

  • Thick, creeping, green to brown

3. Growth Behavior

• Growth rate: Slow

• Form: Dense, bushy clusters over time

• Spread: Horizontal via rhizome division

• Submerged adaptation: Excellent; very stable once established

NEO is valued for its tidy, uniform appearance, making it suitable for precision aquascapes.

4. Aquarium Care Requirements

Lighting

• Low to medium light preferred

• Higher light enhances coloration but increases algae risk

CO₂

• Optional

• CO₂ improves leaf size, sheen, and growth speed

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)

• pH: 5.8–7.5

• GH/KH: Soft to moderately hard

• Highly sensitive to instability—consistent parameters are critical

5. Nutrient Requirements

• Feeds mainly from the water column

• Responds well to:

  • Liquid micronutrients

  • Potassium

  • Trace iron (avoid overdosing)

• Root tabs are unnecessary and can be harmful if placed near the rhizome

6. Planting and Placement

• Must not be buried

• Attach to:

  • Lava rock

  • Driftwood

  • Dragon stone

• Placement:

  • Foreground to midground

  • Accent plant in detail-focused layouts

7. Maintenance & Propagation

• Maintenance: Very low

• Remove algae-affected older leaves if needed

• Propagation:

  • Cut rhizome into sections (each with 3–4 leaves minimum)

  • Use sterile scissors or blade

8. Flowering

• Can flower submerged

• Small white to pale pink spathe

• Often indicates stable, mature aquarium conditions

9. Common Problems

• Leaf melt after introduction: Normal acclimation response

• Algae on leaves: Caused by excess light or nutrient imbalance

• Stagnant growth: Typical; Bucephalandra are inherently slow growers

10. Ideal Use Cases

• High-detail aquascapes (Iwagumi accents, nature style)

• Nano aquariums

• Shrimp tanks

• Low-tech planted tanks

11. Bucephalandra NEO vs Green Wavy (Quick Comparison)

12. Why Hobbyists Choose NEO

• Refined, minimalistic look

• Stable submerged growth

• Suitable for both low-tech and high-tech tanks

• Excellent detail plant for close-up viewing