Pogostemon stellatus: elegant and large plant for natural or open aquariums
A spectacular "star-shaped" plant
Pogostemon stellatus is recognized by its fine leaves arranged in a star around the stem. Planted in groups, it creates graphic thickets or real underwater "bamboo groves." Under strong light, it can show golden to reddish hues. In more typical light, its bright green remains stunning.
Tropical but versatile, it can be outdoors in summer (pond/trashcan garden) and partially emerge, but must be brought inside as soon as the water drops below 16 °C.
Why choose Pogostemon stellatus?
- Focal point for aquascaping: slender habit, 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).
- Mid/background plant for large or open tanks.
- Tolerant of substrate: simple sand is sufficient, mainly feeds through its leaves in the water.
Planting and cultivation tips
- Light: aim for strong light to compact the internodes and boost colors. But moderate light is perfectly tolerated.
- Circulation: avoid excessive circulation (which degasses the aquarium’s natural CO₂).
- Water: prefers rather soft water. A mix of rainwater and tap water is possible.
- Density: tight planting = longer stems "bamboo effect"; spaced planting = more branched silhouette.
- Size and cuttings: cut above a node and replant the top. The base will send out new shoots and the top will take root.
- Outdoor: perfect for summer. Bring inside when the temperature drops below 16 °C.
Possible Uses
- Low-tech aquarium (mid/background): a graphic mass covering the height, even emerging if the aquarium is open.
- Aquascaping: a large focal point, the original and graphic silhouette of this plant making a real impression.
- Trashcan pond / summer pond: very beautiful emergent stems in summer, possible flowering. Bring indoors in autumn.
FAQ - Pogostemon stellatus
Is CO2 needed to get the colors?
No. Strong light is enough. CO2 can speed up growth but is not essential at all.
I read that it is a difficult plant.
It’s 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 say, CO2 injection is absolutely not necessary.
Where to place it in the aquarium?
In the middle/background, preferably in a spacious tank.
How to multiply it quickly?
By cuttings: cut the top part and replant it. The base will send out shoots and the replanted part will root. Tip: you can also propagate by cutting sections with several nodes (replant in the correct orientation!) upon receipt to get multiple stems after regrowth.
Can it live in low-tech setups?
Yes, if the light is sufficient and water movement remains moderate. It prefers the absence of current like a natural aquarium without filter or pump.
Why are my stems turning yellow?
Often a sign of deficiency if the water has become "too clean": add some tap water (which contains minerals, nitrates...) if the tank is very "empty" of fauna and therefore low in nitrogen.
Additional information
- Scientific name: Pogostemon stellatus
- Plant type: tall aquatic or emergent stem plant.
- Light: strong if possible, but tolerates moderate lighting.
- Ideal temperature: 20 to 28°C, minimum 16°C.
- Size: can reach 60 cm tall and 20 cm wide.
- Packaging: 2 stems with roots (approximate weight: 10 g).
- Guarantee: without rock wool or any artificial substrate.
- Recommendation: As a precaution, please never release this plant into the wild. It is not native to our regions and normally should not naturalize, but we must protect our ecosystems.
