Dennerle Staurogyne Repens

Staurogyne repens is a compact, creeping stem plant from the fast-flowing streams of the Cristalino River in Brazil. Its small, oval to rounded vivid-green leaves grow densely along compact stems that spread horizontally and slightly upward, creating a layered, bushy appearance in the foreground to midground zone of planted aquariums.

Staurogyne repens has become a staple in planted aquascaping because it occupies a niche between carpet plants (too demanding) and tall stem plants (too large for midground): it provides green coverage and texture at a height of 5–10 cm without the strict demands of carpet species, and its compact leaf size and growth pattern create a natural, understory look.

The plant grows without CO2 under moderate light, though CO2 significantly improves growth rate, leaf density, and vibrancy. It is suitable for intermediate aquarists who want more than simple low-tech plants but aren't ready for demanding carpet species.

Dennerle produces S. repens as a tissue culture (in vitro) for algae-free, clean introduction. It is also available as emersed-grown potted plants.

Light: Medium to high light (20–50+ PAR). Grows without CO2 in medium light; CO2 and stronger light produce denser, more compact growth.

CO2: Optional but beneficial. CO2 injection (15–20 mg/L) significantly improves growth quality.

Substrate: Grows in most substrates. Nutrient-rich soil or root tabs support healthy long-term growth.

Placement: Foreground to midground. Keep trimmed to 5–8 cm height for neat appearance. Plant in groups of 3–5 for a natural look.

Propagation: Take side shoots and replant. Trim tops and replant for bushier groupings.

Maintenance: Moderate. Trim regularly to maintain compact height. Remove yellowing lower leaves. Prune side shoots to control spread.

Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 20–28°C.