Pogostemon 'Octopus'

Pogostemon quadrifolius, sold as Pogostemon 'Octopus', is a stem plant whose long, thin leaves are arranged in whorls along the stem. When the stem reaches the surface, the topmost whorl of leaves spreads across the water surface and resembles octopus arms waving in the current; this is where its trade name comes from. It is one of the easiest Pogostemon species: it grows fast in moderate light, even without CO₂. Under strong light the leaves become shorter and denser.

• Plant the stems individually, 3–4 cm apart, 3–4 cm deep.
• In the background, in an area with gentle flow, the waving leaves look their best.

• Light: Moderate.
• CO₂: Not required but beneficial.
• Fertilizer: Regular liquid fertilizer; because it grows fast, its nutrient demand is moderate to high.
• Trimming: Cut stems that spread too much at the surface from the top and replant them; otherwise they shade the plants below.