Scientific Name: Pogostemon erectus
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Common Name: Pogostemon
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Origin: India
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Family: Lamiaceae
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Height: 20-40 cm
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Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
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Placement in Tank: Midground, Background
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Light Requirement: Medium to High
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CO2 Requirement: Recommended for optimal growth and denser foliage
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Temperature: 22-28°C
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pH: 6.0-7.5
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Propagation: Stem cuttings
The Pogostemon erectus is a striking, fast-growing aquatic plant known for its bright green, pine-like foliage that adds height and texture to aquascapes. Its vertical, bushy growth makes it an excellent choice for the background or midground in planted tanks. Grown in-vitro, this plant arrives free from pests, algae, and contaminants, providing a healthy start for your aquarium.
Key Features:
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Pine-Like Foliage: Pogostemon erectus is known for its distinctive, bright green leaves that resemble pine needles, giving a unique and eye-catching texture to aquascapes.
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Fast-Growing Plant: With the proper lighting and CO2, this plant grows quickly and forms dense, tall bushes that add depth to the tank.
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In-Vitro Cultivation: Grown in sterile conditions, this plant is free from pests, algae, and pathogens, ensuring a clean introduction to your aquarium.
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Great for Aquascaping: Its tall, bushy growth makes it perfect for use as a background plant or a midground feature in larger aquariums, providing vertical interest and contrast to other plants.
Care Requirements:
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Lighting: Pogostemon erectus thrives in medium to high lighting conditions. Adequate light is essential to maintain its compact, bushy growth and bright green coloration.
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CO2: While Pogostemon erectus can grow without CO2, supplementation is highly recommended to promote faster growth and fuller, denser foliage.
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Water Parameters: This plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and temperatures between 22-28°C. Nutrient-rich water and substrate support optimal growth.
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Trimming: Regular trimming helps maintain its compact, bushy shape and encourages side shoot development. Cuttings can be replanted to propagate more plants throughout the aquarium.
Planting Tips:
- Rinse the plant thoroughly to remove the nutrient gel before planting in your aquarium.
- Plant Pogostemon erectus in a nutrient-rich substrate, spaced evenly in the background or midground to create vertical interest and lush green coverage.
- Ensure medium to high lighting and CO2 supplementation to promote rapid growth and compact form.
