Malaysian Driftwood

Malaysian Driftwood is the classic aquascaper's hardwood — dense, decay-resistant, and so heavy it sinks immediately with no soaking or boiling required. Gnarled root-and-branch forms create instant structure for shrimp, plecos, bettas, tetras, and any blackwater or planted setup. Each piece is naturally one-of-a-kind, hand-picked from our in-store selection.

Pair with our live freshwater plants — the wood makes an ideal mount for anubias, java fern, and mosses. Browse our full freshwater collection for compatible livestock and supplies.

Why Malaysian Driftwood

• Sinks immediately — no waterlogging or weighing down required.
• Releases tannins — gently lowers pH and produces a soft amber "blackwater" tint that bettas, tetras, and shrimp thrive in. Reduce or eliminate with activated carbon if you prefer crystal-clear water.
• Surface for epiphytic plants — perfect anchor for Anubias, Microsorum (Java fern), Bucephalandra, and aquatic mosses.
• Decay-resistant hardwood — holds up for years in submerged use without softening or fouling.

Choose Your Size

Setup Tips

• Rinse first: A quick scrub under hot water removes loose debris before placement.
• Tannin control: If you want minimal tea-coloring, soak the piece in a bucket of hot water for 24–48 hours and change the water once. Or just embrace the amber — it's beneficial for many fish and inverts.
• Mounting plants: Use thin cotton thread or super glue gel to attach rhizomes (Anubias, Java fern). Roots will fuse to the wood within weeks.
• Cleaning: A soft brush during water changes is all it needs. Avoid soaps or chemicals.

Specifications

Recommended Pairings

• Weeping Moss — flowing, draping cover for the branches.
• Christmas Moss — denser, classic aquascape moss.
• Bucephalandra — rhizome plants that thrive when glued or tied to driftwood.
• Freshwater shrimp & snails — they'll graze biofilm off the wood for years.

FAQ

Do I need to boil it first?
Not required — Malaysian Driftwood sinks straight away and is safe to use after a rinse. Boiling can speed up tannin release if you want to "exhaust" some of the color before it goes in the tank.

Will it stain my water brown?
A little, especially in the first few weeks. The amber tint is harmless and beneficial for shrimp, bettas, and blackwater species. Use activated carbon or Purigen if you want it clear.

Can I use it in saltwater?
We don't recommend it. The tannins and softening effect work against marine chemistry.

Will every piece look like the photo?
Each piece is natural and unique. The photo shows a representative example — shape, branching, and exact size will vary. Come into the store to hand-pick the one you want.