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Pogostemon helferi on lava stone
Downoi on lava stone — unique starfish leaves for the foreground
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£23.99 - Regular price
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£23.99
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Shop similar productsQuick Facts
Rating:
Common name:
Origin: Asia
Position in Aquarium: Foreground
Grows up to (cm):
Growth rate: Medium pace
Dimensions (cm): 20cm long
Description
Pogostemon helferi, known in the hobby as Downoi (Thai for 'little star'), is a distinctive carpeting plant from Thailand producing small, starfish-shaped rosettes of crinkled, bright green leaves. It has a unique appearance unlike most other aquarium plants — the unusual leaf shape and low, compact rosette form make it a sought-after foreground plant for planted aquascapes. This version comes pre-established on a piece of porous lava stone, creating a ready-made planted piece for foreground placement.
Pogostemon helferi is an average care plant. It benefits from medium to bright light and CO2 supplementation to maintain its compact, low-growing form and healthy bright green colouration. Without CO2 it tends to grow taller and less densely. A nutrient-rich substrate or fertilisation supports long-term healthy growth. It is worth the small extra effort for the unusual and striking effect it creates.
The plant is pre-established on the lava stone so no substrate planting is needed — simply place the stone in the foreground of the aquarium. Lava stone is porous, aquarium-safe, and provides an excellent growing surface that plants colonise naturally over time. Suited to aquariums of 30 litres and above with good lighting.
Plant Sizes
The image of the plant you'll be receiving is just an example of what you can expect. Each plant is unique and may vary in size and shape, so it won't be an exact match to the photo. If we provide a size guide, keep in mind that it's just an estimate and that plants can vary in size depending on the time of year.
Shipping
Same-day dispatch on orders placed before 4pm, Monday to Friday. Tracked 24 Service from £4.99, DPD Express from £6.99.
What makes Pogostemon helferi unusual?
It produces small, starfish-shaped rosettes of crinkled, bright green leaves with a low, compact growth habit unlike almost any other aquarium plant. Known in the hobby as Downoi, meaning 'little star' in Thai.
Does it need CO2?
CO2 supplementation is recommended to keep the plant compact and its colour vivid. Without it, the plant can grow taller and less dense.
Why is it on lava stone?
Lava stone is porous and aquarium-safe, providing an ideal planting surface that roots colonise naturally. The stone holds the plant in the foreground without substrate planting.
What lighting does it need?
Medium to bright light is recommended. It is not well suited to very low-light tanks.
What tank size suits it?
It works from 30 litres upward as a foreground feature. It is best appreciated in planted aquariums with good lighting and CO2.
