Pogostemon kimberly

Pogostemon kimberly or Broadleaf, scientific name Pogostemon stellatus “Broad leaf”, is one of the many natural geographical forms of Pogostemon stellatus. In nature, it grows on the island of Papua New Guinea, a large island north of Australia. It occurs everywhere along the banks of water bodies both in the surface (on wet substrates) and in the state immersed in water.

In favorable conditions, it forms a compact stem, which, however, in small aquariums can reach the surface. This form is distinguished by wide large leaves slightly serrated along the edge. The color varies from olive (on the lower tier), to rich red or burgundy at the top of the plant, where the young leaves are located.

Pogostemon kimberly is one of the most unpretentious varieties of Pogostemon stellatus. But the statement is true only within this species. For healthy growth and the manifestation of the entire spectrum of colors, it is necessary to provide a high level of lighting, additional introduction of carbon dioxide and top dressing in the form of liquid fertilizers with trace elements (nitrates, phosphates, iron, etc.).

New shoots are recommended to be planted at a sufficient distance from each other so that the plant can reach its potential of 20 cm in width. Accordingly, it is desirable to thin out some of the young sprouts that appear on the sides of the mother plant. Due to its color, it stands out perfectly against the general green background of other aquarium plants.