Anubias Nana White vs. Pinto vs. Marble: A Visual Guide to Telling Them Apart

The world of variegated Anubias is captivating, but it can also be confusing. Terms like ‘White’, ‘Pinto’, and ‘Marble’ are often used to describe these stunning plants, yet they represent distinct and unique varieties. As a collector or enthusiast, knowing how to tell them apart is crucial to ensure you are getting the exact plant you desire. In this visual guide, we will break down the key differences between these three iconic Anubias varieties.

The Foundation: What is Variegation?

Before comparing, let’s quickly define variegation. It’s the appearance of differently colored zones in the leaves of a plant. In the case of these Anubias, it’s caused by a genetic mutation that leads to a lack of green pigment (chlorophyll) in certain cells. The pattern and extent of this chlorophyll loss are what define each variety. For an in-depth explanation, our article on the science of variegation is a great resource.

Anubias Nana White: The Rarest Jewel

This is the pinnacle of Anubias variegation and the most sought-after of the three.

• Key Identifier: The leaves are almost entirely white or a very pale, milky cream color.
• Color Pattern: A healthy specimen will show very little green, perhaps only faint green veining or a slight green blush near the base of the leaf where it meets the stem. The goal when cultivating this plant is to maximize this whiteness.
• Demands: It is the most delicate and demanding of the group. Its extreme lack of chlorophyll means it photosynthesizes very inefficiently, making it highly dependent on perfect, stable conditions. Our Ultimate Care Guide covers its specific needs.

Think of it as: Almost pure white. It’s the variety that makes people stop and ask, “Is that even real?”

Anubias Pinto: The Painter’s Splash

Anubias ‘Pinto’ is like a canvas that has been artfully splashed with green and white paint. It’s highly popular for its dramatic and unpredictable patterns.

• Key Identifier: The leaves display a “sectoral” or “patched” variegation.
• Color Pattern: You will see distinct, clearly defined areas of solid white and solid green on the same leaf. One leaf might be half-white and half-green, while another might have a few random white splashes on a green background. The pattern is inconsistent from leaf to leaf, which is part of its charm.
• Demands: It is hardier than Anubias Nana White because it has significantly more green, chlorophyll-producing tissue to generate energy. However, it still requires good care to maintain its bright white patches.

Think of it as: A beautiful mosaic of green and white. If you’re looking for a variegated plant that is a bit more forgiving than ‘White’, Anubias Pinto is an excellent choice.

Anubias Marble: The Subtle Blend

Anubias ‘Marble’ (sometimes called ‘Snowflake’ ) offers a softer, more integrated pattern of variegation.

• Key Identifier: The leaves show a mottled or marbled pattern, rather than hard patches.
• Color Pattern: Instead of large splashes, you’ll see a more diffuse blend of light green, dark green, and creamy white spread across the leaf surface. It looks less like distinct patches and more like the colors are gently mixed together, similar to a marble stone.
• Demands: Its care requirements are similar to Anubias Pinto, making it a relatively hardy variegated variety.

Think of it as: A soft, cloudy blend of greens and whites.

Quick Comparison Table

While all three are stunning additions to any collection, their differences are clear once you know what to look for. Anubias Nana White is the ultimate prize for its pure color, Pinto is the dramatic artist’s plant, and Marble is the subtly beautiful variant. Choosing the right one depends on your aesthetic preference and your confidence in providing the specific care each one requires.