What Are Betta Bulbs? Everything You Need To Know!

Betta bulbs are pre-packaged aquatic plant tubers. You drop them in water, and if you’re lucky, they grow into full plants like Aponogeton or similar species.

That’s the fun part.

The problem? Not every bulb sprouts. Some rot. And if you drop them straight into your betta tank, it can mess with water quality. So while they’re fun to try, they’re not as beginner-proof as stores make them seem.

If you’re thinking of trying betta bulbs, this guide covers the popular types, what to expect, and whether it’s worth the effort.

What Are Betta Bulbs, Exactly?

Betta bulbs are dried tubers of aquatic plants—usually Aponogeton. You’ll find them at chain pet stores like Petco in small packs, often labeled as “betta bulbs” without naming the actual plant species.

You drop them into water and wait. If the bulb is healthy, roots and leaves sprout in a few days to weeks.

If the bulb is bad, it either rots or grows a non-aquatic plant that shoots above the surface. That’s your cue to toss it.

Important tip: Always grow betta bulbs in a separate container first. Don’t risk your main tank.

Best Plants Commonly Sold as “Betta Bulbs”

Aponogeton Species

• Difficulty: Easy
• Light: Low
• Temp: 72–82°F
• Growth: Fast
• Needs substrate: Yes
• CO₂: Optional
• Propagation: Side shoots or pollinated flowers

Aponogeton is the most common plant you’ll get from a betta bulb. These plants grow quickly, look beautiful, and do well in low light.

They sometimes go dormant. If yours suddenly drops its leaves, give it a rest. It might come back in a few weeks.

Good beginner pick—but again, only if you sprout it outside the main tank first.

Ready to learn more about Betta? This post will give you fresh insights! The No-Stress Betta Tank Setup Guide (Even Beginners Can Nail It)

Cryptocoryne Species

• Difficulty: Easy
• Light: Low
• Temp: 68–83°F
• Growth: Moderate
• Needs substrate: Yes
• CO₂: Optional
• Propagation: Root division

These are slower to grow than Aponogetons but very hardy. They don’t like change, though. If you move them between tanks or mess with lighting, they might “melt” (drop leaves) before regrowing.

Great choice for darker tanks.

Other Beginner-Friendly Live Plants (Not from Bulbs, But Way More Reliable)

These plants aren’t sold as bulbs, but they’re way more reliable than random tubers.

Java Fern

• Doesn’t need substrate
• Grows on rocks or driftwood
• Tough and betta-safe

Don’t bury it—just tie or glue it to something hard. Super easy.

Java Moss

• Forms thick carpets or clumps
• Grows on rocks, wood, or decorations
• No substrate needed

Also doesn’t care about lighting. Great for beginners and small tanks.

Anubias Nana

• Slow grower
• Likes low light
• Attach to hard surfaces, not substrate

It’s one of the hardiest aquarium plants. Safe, steady, and won’t overgrow your tank.

Marimo Moss Balls

• Not actually a moss, but algae
• Low-maintenance and round
• Bettas love resting on or playing with them

Just drop it in and rotate it now and then.

Amazon Sword (Only for Big Tanks)

• Needs nutrient-rich substrate
• Can grow huge
• Better for tanks 10 gallons or larger

It’s a strong plant but not great for small betta tanks. Skip this one unless you have space.

Problems With Betta Bulbs

• Unpredictable: You don’t know what plant you’ll get—or if it’ll grow at all
• Rot risk: A bad bulb will decay and mess up your water
• Wrong plant: Sometimes you’ll get semi-aquatic or non-aquatic species
• No refunds: Some stores won’t take back bulbs if they fail

That’s why I keep saying—use a separate container for sprouting.

How Long Do They Take to Grow?

If you’re lucky, you’ll see sprouts in 3 to 7 days. If nothing happens after a week, or it smells bad, remove it.

Most good sellers offer a 30-day guarantee. Use it if your bulb turns out to be a dud.

Hungry for knowledge about Betta? We’ve got you covered in this article. How To Make An Aquaponics Betta Fish Tank? [DIY+Pictures]

Do Bettas Need Live Plants?

No, but they benefit from them.

Live plants:

• Provide natural shelter
• Help with oxygen during the day
• Absorb extra nutrients (less algae growth)
• Look way better than plastic

They also make bettas feel more at home. So while not required, they’re a big win for both you and your fish.

Final Thoughts

Betta bulbs are fun to try, but don’t count on them. Always sprout them in a separate container first, and never let a rotting bulb sit in your main tank.

If you want an easier path, just buy pre-grown plants like Java Fern or Anubias. Your betta won’t know the difference—but your tank will stay cleaner and safer.

Want a green, happy tank? Skip the gamble and grow what works.