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Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’ is a unique and fast-growing background plant, instantly recognizable for its long, narrow, tentacle-like leaves that give it its name. With its flowing, soft texture and light green to slightly reddish tones under high light, this plant brings movement and visual depth to planted aquariums—especially larger or high-energy scapes.
Scientific Name: Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’
Family: Lamiaceae
Origin: Southeast Asia & Northern Australia
Height: 30 – 60+ cm
Light Requirements: Medium to High
CO₂ Requirements: Medium (beneficial for vibrant growth)
Growth Rate: Fast
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Available Information:
Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’ is a cultivar of Pogostemon stellatus, valued in aquascaping for its airy structure and fast, upright growth. Its slender, waving leaves resemble the tentacles of an octopus—creating a dynamic, flowing effect in the aquarium, especially in gentle current.
Under medium to high light and with CO₂ supplementation, the leaves may develop subtle purple or reddish hues. In lower-tech tanks, it remains green and grows more slowly, but still performs well. Its fast growth makes it excellent for absorbing excess nutrients and establishing balance in planted systems.
This plant thrives best in temperatures between 22–28 °C and pH levels around 6.0–7.5. To prevent it from overshadowing other plants, regular pruning is recommended. Trimmed tops can be replanted for easy propagation.
Pogostemon stellatus ‘Octopus’ is typically used in the midground to background and is ideal for creating height, texture, and natural movement in aquascapes. It pairs beautifully with denser, broad-leaved species or red accent plants, and also provides shelter for small fish and shrimp.
