Pogostemon stellatus “Broad Leaf” – A Vibrant Stem Plant for Aquariums
This magnificent plant is fairly new to the aquarium hobby and can turn bright red in high-tech setups!
Pogostemon stellatus “Broad Leaf” is a new, somewhat unknown stem plant that has recently gained attention in the aquarium community. Native to Australia and Southeast Asia, this broad leaf variety can grow up to 8 inches in width.
It requires high lighting to maintain its full foliage. When kept in an aquarium with CO2 injection, it develops an impressive bright red coloration. Care is similar to other stem plants—best placed in the middle ground or background under high lighting conditions. It grows quickly with proper maintenance and care.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Native Region | Australia, Southeast Asia |
| Max Width | 8 inches |
| Light Requirement | High lighting |
| CO2 Benefit | Enhances red coloration |
| Growth Rate | Fast with proper care |
FAQ
Can Pogostemon stellatus grow in low-light conditions?
No, this plant requires high lighting to maintain its leaves and vibrant coloration.
Does CO2 injection affect the plant’s color?
Yes, CO2 injection helps maintain an intense bright red color in Pogostemon stellatus “Broad Leaf”.
What is the ideal placement in the aquarium?
Best placed in the middle ground or background area.




James Manning –
I’ve had this plant for three months now and it’s thriving. The red color is stunning under my high-intensity LED lights. It grows quickly and fills out the middle section of my tank well. Easy to maintain and looks great with my other stem plants.
Jasmine Clarkson –
The plant arrived healthy and has grown steadily since I added it to my aquarium. I use CO2 and high lighting, and the color shift to bright red is noticeable. A bit of effort in lighting is required, but the result is worth it.
Deirdre Duncan –
This is one of the most visually striking plants I’ve added to my tank. The broad leaves spread out nicely and the red hue under CO2 is vibrant. I recommend it for aquarists looking for a bold, colorful stem plant.