Staurogyne repens is one of the most popular and versatile midground/foreground plants in aquascaping. Loved for its vibrant green color, low growth, and ease of shaping, it forms a dense, bushy appearance that looks natural and lush without being high-maintenance.
🌿 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Staurogyne repens
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Common Name: S. repens, Staurogyne
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Origin: Rio Cristalino, Brazil (Amazon region)
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Family: Acanthaceae
🪴 Appearance
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Color: Bright to medium green
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Leaves: Oval to lance-shaped, slightly textured
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Height: 5–10 cm (2–4 inches)
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Growth habit: Low and spreading; can bush or trail
💡 Care Requirements
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Medium to high |
| CO₂ | Optional but improves growth and compact form |
| Substrate | Nutrient-rich or with root tabs |
| Temperature | 20–28°C (68–82°F) |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Hardness | Soft to medium |
🌱 Growth & Propagation
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Growth rate: Moderate
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Propagation: Cut stems and replant into substrate
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Trimming: Regular trimming encourages bushier, horizontal spread
⚠️ Tips & Notes
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Grows more upright in lower light, more compact and carpet-like with higher light and CO₂.
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Makes an excellent transition plant between carpeting plants and taller stems.
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It’s robust—withstands replanting, scaping changes, and varying water conditions.
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Can grow slightly invasive if left untrimmed, but very easy to shape.
🌟 Aquascaping Use
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Ideal for midground or foreground in medium to large tanks.
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Works great in nature-style, Dutch, or jungly layouts.
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Pairs beautifully with carpeting plants like Monte Carlo or Eleocharis, and contrasts well with red or fine-leaf stems.
