This listing is for ONE bunch of pogostemon Stellatus from my healthy and snail free betta fish tank. You will receive ONE bunch of similar size or bigger than the one shown on my hand.
Pogostemon stellatus, commonly known as Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’ or simply Octopus Grass, is a popular aquarium plant that offers both aesthetic and functional benefits. It’s a striking plant with unique, finely dissected leaves that give it a soft, flowing appearance, making it a favorite for aquascaping.
• Appearance: Pogostemon stellatus has long, narrow, light green leaves with a distinct, feathery appearance. The plant’s stems can grow tall and spread horizontally, creating a bushy, octopus-like shape, hence its common name.
• Size: It can grow up to 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) tall, depending on the conditions.
• Growth Form: It typically grows in a dense, bushy cluster with its leaves creating a soft, flowing texture. Under proper conditions, it can develop a reddish or yellowish hue on new growth, adding visual interest to the aquarium.
Benefits:
1. Aesthetic Appeal: Pogostemon stellatus is highly valued in aquascaping for its delicate and intricate appearance. It can be used as a background or midground plant to add texture and contrast to aquariums.
2. Oxygenation and Filtration: Like most aquarium plants, Pogostemon stellatus helps oxygenate the water and can improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, such as nitrates and phosphates, reducing the risk of algae blooms.
3. Natural Habitat: It provides hiding spots for fish, shrimp, and other aquatic organisms, which can help reduce stress for inhabitants in the tank.
4. Growth Rate: It has a moderate growth rate, which allows it to fill in aquariums without taking over too quickly, making it easier to maintain a balanced aquascape.
How to Grow Pogostemon Stellatus:
1. Lighting:
• Pogostemon stellatus prefers moderate to high lighting. It requires a light intensity of about 2 to 4 watts per gallon. Lower light may lead to slower growth and less vibrant color, while too much light can encourage algae growth.
2. Water Conditions:
• Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C).
• pH: Prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 6.5 to 7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2-12 dGH).
• Water Flow: Moderate to gentle water flow is ideal. Strong currents can damage delicate leaves.
3. Substrate:
• It thrives in nutrient-rich substrates like aqua soil or gravel with root tabs. Pogostemon stellatus benefits from a substrate that provides nutrients for its roots, though it can also be grown in basic gravel with the help of liquid fertilizers.
4. Fertilization:
• Regular fertilization, particularly with a complete liquid fertilizer containing macro and micronutrients, will help promote healthy growth. CO2 injection is not mandatory but will significantly improve growth and coloration.
5. Pruning and Propagation:
• Regular trimming is necessary to keep the plant from becoming too leggy and to encourage bushier growth. You can propagate Pogostemon stellatus by cutting the stems and replanting the top sections, as it roots easily in the substrate.
6. Tankmates:
• Pogostemon stellatus is compatible with most peaceful aquarium species, including small to medium-sized fish, shrimp, and snails. However, avoid placing it in tanks with overly aggressive or large fish that may damage the plant.
Potential Issues:
• Algae Growth: If the plant receives too much light, it might encourage algae growth on the leaves.
• Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can cause the plant to grow tall and spindly, losing its compact, bushy appearance.
