Kenya Tree Coral
The Kenya tree coral is a soft, bushy, tan-to-brown 'tree' that sways in the current and is famous for being nearly indestructible - it grows in modest light, drops self-fragging branches that become new colonies, and forgives beginner mistakes.
Last reviewed: July 2026
AI illustration Overview
The Kenya tree coral is a soft, bushy, tan-to-brown 'tree' that sways in the current and is famous for being nearly indestructible - it grows in modest light, drops self-fragging branches that become new colonies, and forgives beginner mistakes. That toughness makes it slightly weedy. (Capnella species.)
Origin & Habitat
Indo-Pacific reefs, on rock in areas with good water movement.
Appearance
A soft brown or tan branching 'tree' with feathery polyps; deflates to a nub and re-inflates, swaying in flow.
Placement & Temperament
Peaceful, but propagates by dropping branchlets that root elsewhere, so it can pop up around the tank. Give it room and remove stray drops.
Tank & Water Conditions
Salinity 1.024-1.026, 24-27°C, stable alkalinity 8-11 dKH, calcium 400-450, magnesium 1300-1350.
Lighting & Flow
Low to moderate light (about 50-120 PAR) and moderate to strong flow to keep it clean and swaying.
Feeding
Photosynthetic; the occasional fine meaty food is a bonus, not a need.
Health & Growth
Extremely hardy and fast; shrinking to a nub for a day or two before re-inflating is normal, not death.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very hardy, fast, forgiving
- Attractive swaying motion
- Self-propagates readily
Cons
- Weedy - drops branchlets that spread
- Muted brown colours
- Needs decent flow to stay clean
Everyday gear for a reef tank
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Kenya Tree Coral - frequently asked questions
Why has my Kenya tree shrunk to a little stump?
They deflate periodically, sometimes for a day or two, then re-inflate. It is normal shedding/rest behaviour, not a sign of dying.
Is Kenya tree coral invasive in a tank?
It can be weedy - it drops branchlets that grow into new colonies around the tank. Remove strays if you do not want them.