Pogostemon Stellatus Octopus

Pogostemon stellatus Octopus

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Lamiales›Lamiaceae

Pogostemon stellatus Octopus is a vibrant stem plant featuring distinctive reddish-purple coloration and uniquely branched, octopus-like foliage that becomes more pronounced under high light. This cultivar is prized for its ornamental appeal and relatively straightforward care requirements compared to other demanding stem plants.

Where it's from

Native to Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, China South-Central, China Southeast and 22 more

At a glance

CO₂: recommended
Growth: Fast
Placement: midground
Temp: 72–82°F; 22–28°C
pH: 6.0-7.5
GH: 71–143 ppm; 4–8 dGH

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Compatible livestock

See all 5

Amano Shrimp

Non-destructive algae eaters that won't uproot or damage delicate stems

excellent

Neon Tetra

Peaceful schooling fish that provide visual contrast and don't disturb planted areas

excellent

Otocinclus

Gentle algae grazers that help maintain plant health without harming foliage

good

German Blue Ram

Peaceful dwarf cichlid that respects plants and provides mid-water activity

good

Rotala Butterfly

Complementary stem plant with contrasting leaf shape and growth habit

excellent

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Common diseases 4Melt on Transition, Iron Deficiency (Chlorosis), Algae Overgrowth on Leaves, Nutrient Deficiency (Macronutrient)

Melt on Transition

Symptoms

Sudden leaf loss, stem transparency, and deterioration when first introduced to new tank conditions

Treatment

Maintain stable water parameters (pH, temperature, hardness); gradually acclimate plant; ensure adequate lighting and CO2; perform 25% water changes weekly

Iron Deficiency (Chlorosis)

Symptoms

Yellowing of new leaves while veins remain green; stunted growth; pale coloration loss

Treatment

Dose liquid iron fertilizer (chelated iron) 2-3 times weekly; increase CO2 injection; ensure adequate lighting to promote nutrient uptake

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating foliage; reduced photosynthesis; leaf deterioration

Treatment

Reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours; increase water flow; add algae-eating fauna (Amano shrimp, Otocinclus); perform manual removal; reduce excess nutrients

Nutrient Deficiency (Macronutrient)

Symptoms

Slow growth; pale or discolored leaves; weak stem development; loss of red coloration

Treatment

Dose comprehensive all-in-one fertilizer or separate NPK supplements; increase water change frequency; ensure substrate contains nutrient reserves; verify CO2 levels adequate

Legality

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP) (CC BY 4.0).