Pogostemon helferi, also known as "Downoi", is a striking foreground to midground plant that adds bold texture and personality to any aquascape. Its ruffled, bright green leaves and compact rosette growth make it look like a living underwater flower or coral—perfect for layouts that aim for visual impact.
🌿 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Pogostemon helferi
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Common Name: Downoi (Thai for "little star")
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Origin: Thailand and Myanmar
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Family: Lamiaceae (mint family)
🪴 Appearance
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Color: Vibrant green (can gain reddish tinge under strong light)
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Leaves: Curled, wavy, star-shaped
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Height: ~3–10 cm (1.2–4 inches)
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Growth habit: Compact rosette, spreads via runners
💡 Care Requirements
| Condition | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Medium to high (high for compact, colorful growth) |
| CO₂ | Strongly recommended for health and density |
| Substrate | Nutrient-rich (root feeder); aquasoil or tabs |
| Temperature | 22–28°C (72–82°F) |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Hardness | Soft to medium |
🌱 Growth & Propagation
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Growth rate: Moderate
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Propagation: Side shoots and division
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Trimming: Remove older or damaged leaves; divide clumps if overcrowded
⚠️ Tips & Notes
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CO₂ injection and stable nutrients are key for compact, bright growth.
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Can be sensitive to drastic parameter swings—avoid moving it too often.
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In low light or nutrient-poor conditions, it may grow leggy or lose leaf density.
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Works well in both high-tech and low-tech tanks if conditions are consistent.
🌟 Aquascaping Use
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Ideal for foreground to midground, especially in nano tanks or as accent clusters in larger layouts.
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Makes a bold textural contrast next to carpets (Monte Carlo, Eleocharis) or soft plants (Cryptocoryne, moss).
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Pairs beautifully with hardscape—nest it around rocks or driftwood bases for a natural, “planted coral” look.
Pogostemon helferi is like a tiny green sea anemone crossed with a star—it’s bold, sculptural, and eye-catching. Want help pairing it with the right flow, lighting, or companion plants to make it really pop?
