Pogostemon stellatus 'Broad Leaf'

Pogostemon stellatus 'Broad Leaf' is a selected form of the widely cultivated broadleaf Rotala/Pogostemon group, distinguished by its notably wider whorled leaves that develop intense pink to purple-violet colouration under high light and CO2 injection in soft, acidic water. The increased leaf width amplifies the visual impact of the colour display, making each whorl more prominent and the overall stem more commanding as a background specimen. It grows at a moderate to fast pace and is one of the more impressive colour-producing stem plants available to the general hobbyist. Cultivation demands are significant, but the results in a high-tech aquascape are outstanding.

Light: High (50–65 PAR); essential for pink-purple colouration. CO2: Required at 25–35 mg/L; soft water essential for colour expression. Fertilisation: Iron and micronutrient dosing 2–3 times weekly; potassium and phosphate also needed. Placement: Background focal mass; stunning in large groups in spacious aquariums. Propagation: Cut 10–15 cm top sections; trim frequently for dense lateral branching.