Pogostemon stellatus

Care

Pogostemon stellatus thrives with moderate to high lighting, which brings out its best coloration. CO₂ injection (20-30 ppm) is highly recommended for robust growth. It prefers soft to moderately hard water with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) and temperatures between 22-28°C. As a root feeder, a nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial, and regular liquid fertilization with both macro and micronutrients is essential to prevent deficiencies, such as yellowing leaves from a lack of iron.

Propagation

Pogostemon stellatus is easily propagated through cuttings. Simply trim the top portion of a healthy stem and replant it into the substrate. The original stem will often sprout new side shoots below the cut, which can also be separated and replanted.

Trimming

Due to its medium to fast growth rate, Pogostemon stellatus requires regular trimming to maintain its shape and prevent it from shading other plants.

Notes, Tips, and Considerations

• This plant is a good indicator of nutrient levels; a lack of micronutrients, particularly iron, will cause the leaves to become pale or yellow.
• There are several varieties, including the popular 'Octopus' and 'Broad Leaf' forms, which differ in leaf shape and growth habits.
• When growing emersed, it may produce distinctive purple, bottlebrush-like flowers.

Origin

• Regions
  • Asia, East, South
  • Australia, North
• Habitat: swamp, marsh, river, pond
• Water Type: freshwater
• Water Depth: 0.2 - 0.6 m
• Water Flow: slow
• Light: high
• Temperature: 22 - 28 °C
• Humidity: high
• Substrate: mud, soil

Closing

With its striking appearance and fast growth, Pogostemon stellatus is a rewarding challenge for aquarists willing to provide the specific conditions it needs to flourish, adding a spectacular vertical element to any aquascape.