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Freshwater
Pogostemon stellatus 'Octopus'
$15.00
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Ready to collect at our Melbourne store
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Description
Biosecurity Shipping Limitations apply
Shipping Allowed?
| Tasmania | NO |
| Western Australia | NO |
| Northern Territory | NO |
| All Other States | YES |
About Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’
Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’ is a fast-growing and highly attractive freshwater stem plant known for its long, thin, bright-green leaves that spread in every direction, creating a distinctive flowing, tentacle-like appearance.
Its unusual growth habit makes it an excellent choice for creating movement and texture in the background of a planted aquarium. It can quickly form dense bushes when regularly trimmed and replanted.
‘Octopus’ is relatively undemanding compared with many demanding stem plants, but it performs particularly well with good lighting, CO₂ and consistent fertilisation. Under strong conditions, growth can be rapid, making regular maintenance important.
Quick Care Guide
Scientific Name: Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’
Common Name: Pogostemon Octopus / Octopus Plant
Family: Lamiaceae
Type: Freshwater Aquarium Plant / Stem Plant
Origin: Southeast Asia
Growth Rate: Fast
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Placement: Background
Lighting: Moderate to High
CO₂: Recommended
pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5
Temperature: Approximately 20–28°C
Propagation: Stem cuttings
Growth Form: Upright, branching stems
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’ easy to grow?
Yes. It is considered relatively easy compared with many other colourful stem plants. It can grow without CO₂, although CO₂ supplementation produces faster and denser growth.
Does Pogostemon ‘Octopus’ need CO₂?
No, but CO₂ is highly beneficial. In a high-light aquarium, CO₂ will help support healthy, rapid growth.
How fast does Pogostemon ‘Octopus’ grow?
It is a fast-growing stem plant and can quickly fill the background of an aquarium under good conditions.
How do I propagate Pogostemon ‘Octopus’?
Cut the upper portion of a healthy stem and replant it into the substrate. The remaining stem can produce new side shoots.
Where should Pogostemon ‘Octopus’ be planted?
It is best suited to the background, where its long, flowing leaves can spread without overshadowing smaller foreground plants.
Common Mistakes
Not trimming regularly
This plant can grow quickly. Regular trimming helps maintain a dense and attractive background.
Planting too densely
Give individual stems enough space for light and water movement to reach the lower portions.
Insufficient lighting
Low light can lead to thinner, less compact growth.
Allowing stems to shade each other
Regular thinning and trimming helps maintain healthy growth throughout the plant.
Neglecting nutrients
Fast-growing plants require a consistent supply of macro and micronutrients.
Shipping & delivery
This product is for in-store purchase only. Available for in-store pickup.
Returns
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