Pogostemon Helferi – IC035

Pogostemon helferi, often nicknamed “Downoi” (meaning “Little Star” in Thai), is a popular aquatic plant in the aquascaping community. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Myanmar, this plant is cherished for its unique appearance and adaptability. Here’s more about it:

• Leaves: Bright green, wavy, and compact, forming a rosette pattern.
• Size: Grows to about 2–10 cm in height, making it ideal for foreground or midground use in aquariums.
• Growth habit: It spreads horizontally, creating a lush carpet effect under optimal conditions.

Care Requirements

• Light: Medium to high lighting is recommended for vibrant growth.
• CO2: Beneficial for faster and healthier growth but can survive without it in lower-tech setups.
• Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate promotes better rooting and overall health.
• Temperature: Thrives in water temperatures of 22–28°C (72–82°F).
• pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.5).

Maintenance

• Regular trimming encourages compact growth and prevents the plant from overshadowing others.
• Propagation is easy by separating the plantlets from the main plant and replanting them.

Uses in Aquascaping

• Works well in nano tanks and larger aquariums.
• Its star-shaped foliage adds texture and visual interest to layouts.
• Combines beautifully with rocks and driftwood in natural aquascapes.