Bucephalandra sp. (Dark Archile x Goliath)

The Dark Goliath Shadow

Bucephalandra sp. ‘Dark Archile × Goliath’ is a rare and striking Bucephalandra from Central Kalimantan, Borneo, prized for its deep-toned foliage and bold, structured form. Believed to be a cross between the dark, narrow-leaved “Archile” type and the broader, more robust “Goliath,” this plant combines elegance with presence.

In nature, Bucephalandra species grow along fast-flowing jungle streams, clinging to rocks and driftwood where their roots stay moist but not buried. This hybrid reflects that heritage, developing thick rhizomes and slow, steady growth that makes it ideal for aquascapes focused on detail and texture.

Its leaves typically display rich dark green to nearly black tones, often with a subtle metallic or velvety sheen under the right lighting. Compact yet expressive, it brings depth and contrast to nano tanks, nature-style layouts, and shaded hardscape areas.

Highly sought after by collectors, Bucephalandra sp. ‘Dark Archile × Goliath’ offers a dramatic jungle aesthetic in a refined, manageable size—perfect for aquarists who appreciate rare character plants with strong visual impact.

How It Grows

This plant grows from a creeping rhizome, slowly spreading across rocks or driftwood. Like most Bucephalandra, it attaches firmly to hard surfaces rather than rooting in substrate.

It remains compact but slightly more robust than mini varieties, making it ideal for midground placement or as a feature accent on hardscape in aquariums.

The Leaves

The leaves are thick, firm, and slightly textured, reflecting its river-origin resilience.

• Color: deep dark green to almost black, sometimes with bluish undertones

• Surface: subtle metallic, velvety, or silvery sheen under soft lighting

• Shape: oval to moderately elongated with a strong, structured form

The foliage creates a bold yet refined appearance, especially when contrasted against lighter plants or stones.

Light Needs

It prefers low to medium lighting conditions.

• Too much light may trigger algae growth on the slow-growing leaves

• Soft to moderate light enhances the metallic sheen and natural texture

This plant performs very well in shaded aquascapes or under gentle LED lighting.

Water & Aquarium Conditions

This Bucephalandra is adaptable and hardy once established.

• Best grown attached to rocks, lava stone, or driftwood

• The rhizome must not be buried

• Thrives in clean, well-circulated, oxygen-rich water

• CO₂ is optional but can improve growth speed and leaf density

Stable conditions are more important than high-tech setups.

Growing Environment

Suitable for freshwater aquariums, paludariums, and emersed environments.

• Prefers stable water parameters

• Slow growth is natural and expected

• Can adapt to a wide range of tropical aquarium conditions

Its strong rhizome allows it to anchor securely in flowing water environments, similar to its natural habitat in Central Kalimantan’s rocky jungle streams.

Care Level

Low to medium care aquatic plant.

• Suitable for beginners

• Very forgiving once established

• Minimal trimming required

Because of its slow growth, it requires little maintenance compared to stem plants.

Handling Note

Avoid burying the rhizome and avoid frequent repositioning. Once attached and settled, the plant grows slowly and steadily, developing richer coloration over time with minimal intervention.