Pogostemon stellatus: an elegant, large plant for natural or open aquariums
A spectacular "star-shaped" plant
Pogostemon stellatus is recognized by its fine leaves arranged in a star shape around the stem. Planted in groups, it creates graphic clusters or true underwater "bamboo groves." Under strong light, it can display golden to reddish hues. In more typical lighting, its bright green remains superb.
Tropical but versatile, it can be kept outdoors in summer (pond/wastebasket aquarium) and partially emerge, but must be brought indoors as soon as the water drops below 16°C.
Why choose Pogostemon stellatus?
- Focal point for aquascaping: tall growth, star-shaped structure, graphic silhouette.
- Intense colors under strong light (golden/reddish).
- Low-tech compatible: CO₂ unnecessary, heating not essential.
- Very easy propagation by cuttings (tops or sections with several nodes).
- Midground/background plant for large or open tanks.
- Undemanding about substrate: simple sand is sufficient; it feeds mainly from the water through its leaves.
Planting and cultivation advice
- Light: aim for strong light to shorten the internodes and enhance the colors. However, more moderate light is perfectly tolerated.
- Water movement: avoid excessive flow (which degasses the tank's natural CO₂).
- Water: prefers relatively soft water. A rainwater/tap-water mix is possible.
- Density: dense planting = longer stems with a "bamboo effect"; more spaced planting = a more branched silhouette.
- Pruning and cuttings: cut above a node and replant the top. The base will produce new shoots and the top will develop roots.
- Outdoors: perfect for summer. Bring indoors when the temperature drops below 16°C.
Possible uses
- Low-tech aquarium (midground/background): a graphic cluster that fills the height, and may even emerge if the aquarium is open.
- Aquascaping: a substantial focal point; the plant's original, graphic silhouette is sure to make an impression.
- Wastebasket aquarium/summer pond: emerged stems are very attractive in summer, with possible flowering. Bring indoors in autumn.
FAQ - Pogostemon stellatus
Is CO₂ needed to obtain the colors?
No. Strong light is sufficient. CO₂ can accelerate growth but is not necessary at all.
I read that it was a difficult plant.
It is not the easiest plant in our selection, but its reputation as a difficult plant is greatly exaggerated. Pogostemon stellatus likes strong light, but despite what some people say, CO₂ supplementation is absolutely not necessary.
Where should it be placed in the aquarium?
In the midground/background, preferably in a spacious tank.
How can it be propagated quickly?
By cuttings: cut off the upper part and replant it. The base will produce shoots and the replanted section will develop roots. Tip: you can also make cuttings from sections with several nodes (replant them the right way up!) upon receipt to obtain as many stems after regrowth.
Can it live in a low-tech setup?
Yes, if the light is sufficient and water movement remains moderate. It appreciates the absence of current found in a natural aquarium without a filter or pump.
Why are my stems turning yellow?
Often a sign of deficiency if the water has become "too clean": add a little tap water (which contains minerals, nitrates, etc.) if the tank has very little livestock and is therefore nitrogen-poor.
Additional information
- Scientific name: Pogostemon stellatus
- Plant type: tall or emergent stem aquatic plant
- Light: strong if possible, but it accepts more moderate lighting
- Ideal temperature: 20 to 28°C, 16°C minimum.
- Size: can reach 60 cm in height and 20 cm in width.
- Packaging: 2 rooted stems (approximate weight: 10 g).
- Guarantee: no rock wool or artificial substrate of any kind.
- Recommendation: as a precaution, please never release this plant into the wild. It is not native to our regions and should not normally become naturalized, but we must preserve our ecosystems.
