Eusteralis stellata

Eusteralis stellata is a synonym of Pogostemon stellatus; the species was long known under this name until it was returned to Pogostemon in 1997.¹² This annual member of the mint family is native from tropical and subtropical Asia to northern Australia.² In China it grows on wet stream banks and in rice paddies.³ The narrow leaves are arranged in whorls, up to 14 under water and up to six on emersed shoots; submersed they are green, reddish or wine red.¹³

In the aquarium the species is decorative but delicate and needs soft to moderately hard water, a nutrient-rich substrate, CO₂ and very bright light.¹⁴ Growth sometimes stops suddenly even with good care; pale leaves may indicate a lack of trace elements.⁴ It is propagated from cuttings; the broad-leaved form “Broad Leaf” is somewhat less demanding, but it too cannot do without strong light and CO₂.¹

1. Kasselmann, C. (2019): Aquarienpflanzen. 4th edition (German). - Ulmer Verlag, Stuttgart: p. 514.
2. Pogostemon stellatus – Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew (WCVP data as of 4 June 2026, accessed 5 October 2026)
3. Dysophylla stellata – Flora of China, eFloras.org (accessed 5 October 2026)
4. Pogostemon stellatus – Tropica Aquarium Plants (accessed 5 October 2026)