Staurogyne repens

Description

Staurogyne repens is a vibrant green plant with stiff stems and spade-shaped or oval leaves. It is a low-growing, compact, and bushy plant, making it a popular choice for creating a lush carpet effect in aquariums. Originating from rivers in South America, this versatile plant is relatively easy to care for and is suitable for both beginners and experienced aquascapers.

Care

Provide medium to high lighting for 10-12 hours daily to encourage dense, horizontal growth; leggy stems indicate insufficient light. While it can grow without CO2 supplementation, injection is highly recommended for more robust and compact growth. Plant in a nutrient-rich, fine-grained substrate to support its extensive root system. Regular liquid fertilization helps prevent nutrient deficiencies, which can cause yellowing leaves. Maintain a temperature between 20-28°C (68-82°F) and a pH of 6.0-7.5.

Propagation

Propagation is simple. Trim the top portions of the stems, ensuring each cutting has a few leaves. Replant these cuttings directly into the substrate. They will quickly develop new roots and continue to grow, helping to expand your carpet.

Trimming

To maintain a dense carpet, regularly trim the taller, vertical stems. This encourages the plant to spread horizontally and fill in empty spaces.

Notes, Tips, and Considerations

• Like many tissue-cultured or emersed-grown plants, Staurogyne repens may ‘melt’ when first introduced to a new aquarium as it adapts to submersed conditions. This is normal, and new growth should appear soon.
• Be cautious with plant-eating tank inhabitants like goldfish, large snails, and crayfish, as they may damage or uproot the plant.

Naturally Found

• Regions
  • South America
    • Countries: Brazil, Guyana
  • Central America
• Environment
  • Habitat: river
  • Water Type: freshwater
  • Water Depth: 0 – 0.5 m
  • Water Flow: fast
  • Light: medium
  • Temperature: 20 – 28 °C
  • Humidity: high
  • Substrate: rock