Pogostemon helferi

Pogostemon helferi on lava stone.

Aquarists in Thailand, close to the border with Burma, discovered this plant. It is called 'Downoi' (little star) in Thailand, and it is easy to see why (5-10 cm tall and wide). Pogostemon helferi is an unusual and distinctive aquatic plant with a compact habit, curly leaves and a strikingly beautiful green colour.

With good light conditions and a nutrient-rich substrate, Pogostemon helferi forms many side shoots that develop small roots, and the plant rapidly forms an impressive carpet of foreground vegetation.