Eusteralis species E 401

The trade name Eusteralis species E 401 (“Sternrotala grob”, coarse star rotala) stands for a plant from Asia whose species is undetermined; it is now listed as Pogostemon sp. “E 401”.¹ Only flowering specimens grown above water could show whether it belongs to the highly variable species Pogostemon stellatus.¹ Under water its whorls bear about 6 to 11 narrow leaves 2–5 mm wide; shoots usually measure approx. 10 cm across, up to approx. 20 cm with a very generous nutrient supply.¹

It grows at a moderate rate, suits the midground and background and is not particularly demanding in well-supplied tanks.¹ It shows nutrient deficiency early: new growth at the tip stays small and pale until the head dies and is replaced by several new shoot tips.¹ It is propagated from top cuttings.¹

1. Pogostemon sp. “E 401” – Flowgrow aquatic plant database (accessed 5 October 2026)