Rock Flower Anemone Care Guide
The Rock Flower Anemone (Phymanthus crucifer) is a colourful and hardy marine invertebrate popular in the UK. Known for its wide range of vibrant colours and patterns, it's a favourite for reef aquariums looking to add visual impact without the difficulty of more demanding anemones.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Rock Flower Anemone care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Rock Flower Anemones
Rock Flower Anemones are relatively small, non-hosting anemones found in the Caribbean. They come in a wide variety of colours, including reds, greens, oranges, and multi-colour patterns.
They are hardy and generally stay in one place once settled.
Phymanthus crucifer
5-15 cm (fully expanded)
Caribbean
60L (15gal)
5+ years (often much longer)
Peaceful
24-26°C
Carnivore (meaty foods, photosynthesis support)
8.1-8.4
£20-£100+ depending on colour and rarity
How Many Rock Flower Anemones Should You Keep?
Rock Flower Anemones can be kept singly or in groups.
- A single anemone works well in most tanks
- Multiple can be kept in larger aquariums
- They can form attractive "gardens" when grouped
Keeping multiple is generally safe because:
- They are non-aggressive toward each other
- They do not typically wander once settled
Ensure enough space between individuals.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Rock Flower Anemones
Providing stable reef conditions is key to their success.
- Tank Setup: Reef tank with stable parameters
- Placement: Often prefer sand or rock surfaces
- Lighting: Moderate to high reef lighting
- Water Conditions: Stable salinity and excellent water quality
- Flow: Low to moderate flow
- Filtration: Strong filtration with protein skimming recommended
They tend to stay in place once comfortable.
Compatibility with Other Fish and Invertebrates
Rock Flower Anemones are generally reef-safe and compatible with many species.
- Good Tankmates: clownfish, gobies, blennies, shrimp, and most reef-safe fish
- Avoid: large predatory fish that may damage them
They are not typically hosting anemones, so clownfish may ignore them.
Are Rock Flower Anemones Easy to Care For?
Rock Flower Anemones are relatively easy to care for compared to other anemones.
They require:
- Stable water parameters
- Adequate lighting
- Occasional feeding
- A mature tank
They are hardy and a good choice for intermediate reef keepers.
Rock Flower Anemone Price in the UK
In the UK, Rock Flower Anemones typically cost between £20-£100+, depending on colour, size, and rarity. Unique or multi-colour specimens can command higher prices.
Prices vary depending on:
- Colour and pattern
- Size
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
They are popular due to their wide variety of appearances.
Where to Buy Rock Flower Anemones in the UK
Rock Flower Anemones are available from marine aquarium shops and reef hobbyists.
Sourcing locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow inspection of colour and health
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect aquarists who want to buy, sell, or rehome marine livestock safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Rock Flower Anemones?
Yes - Rock Flower Anemones are sometimes propagated and sold by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the anemone
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Connects you with responsible reef keepers
TankMate UK allows you to list livestock quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Rock Flower Anemones
Rock Flower Anemones benefit from both photosynthesis and direct feeding.
Key Tips:
- Feed small meaty foods (e.g. mysis shrimp, chopped seafood)
- Feed once or twice per week
- Do not overfeed
- Ensure food is appropriately sized
Feeding can enhance growth and colour.
Common Problems with Rock Flower Anemones
Failure to settle or moving, often caused by:
- Poor placement
- Inadequate flow or lighting
Shrinking or poor health, linked to:
- Poor water quality
- Lack of feeding
Damage from tankmates, caused by:
- Aggressive or predatory fish
Why Rock Flower Anemones Are So Popular
- Wide range of vibrant colours
- Relatively easy to care for
- Stay in place once settled
- Reef-safe with most species
- Ideal for creating anemone "gardens"
When kept correctly, Rock Flower Anemones add stunning colour and interest to reef aquariums.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually no, though occasional hosting behaviour may occur.
Yes, they are generally safe with corals and other invertebrates.
They may move initially but usually settle in one spot.
At least 60 litres, with stable reef conditions.
Looking to Buy or Sell Rock Flower Anemones Locally?
TankMate UK connects aquarists who want to buy, sell, or rehome marine livestock safely within their local area.
Whether you're building a reef display or passing livestock on to a new home, you can:
- Browse listings near you
- List your own livestock in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right additions for your aquarium.