Eusteralis stellate

Eusteralis stellate, English trade name Eusteralis stellata. Under this name, this plant was first put on sale in the European market from the nursery Dennerle (Winningen, Germany). Presumably, it is one of the natural forms of Pogostemon stellatus and is designated in scientific catalogs as Pogostemon sp. E401.

Under favorable conditions, the plant forms a compact stem about 20 cm high, on which there are many elongated narrow leaves 5–10 cm long and 2–5 mm wide. Each whorl has 6 to 11 leaf blades. The color of the leaves depends on the growing conditions.

The conditions of detention largely coincide with those of Pogostemon stellatus, but Eusteralis stellate is less demanding. Healthy growth requires high levels of light, a supply of carbon dioxide, and special aquarium soil rich in nutrients.

The absence (deficiency) of microelements (nitrates, phosphates, iron, etc.) leads to gradual wilting and death of sprouts. If the concentrations of nitrates and phosphates are on average – 5-10 mg / l and 0,2-1 mg / l, respectively, then the leaves become red. If you increase the concentration to 20 mg / l and 2 mg / l, then green shades will become predominant.

Reproduction occurs by the development of lateral shoots, and with the help of pruning. This allows you to create dense clusters in the middle or background, which will contrast well against the background of broadleaf plants.