Pogostemon stellatus ‘Dassen’

Genus: Pogostemon                                                                           Family: Lamiaceae

Pogostemon is a large genus from the family Lamiaceae and many of them can grow in submerged conditions. The are generally found in warmer parts of Asia. P. erectus, P. helferi and P. stellatus ‘Dassen’ are quite popular in the trade.

Pogostemon stellatus ‘Dassen’

Pogostemon stellatus ‘Dassen’ from Asia as well as Australia is a long-stemmed plant with leaves arranged in whorls. The emergent ones have dark green narrowly lanceolate leaves. When it grows underwater, it will attain its glory by producing much longer and narrower leaves having yellow on upper side and pink colour on underside. Typical background plant arranged in bushes is really attractive.  Trimming is necessary very often due to its faster growth. Nutrient rich environment is very much necessary to sustain its growth. An indicator plant for nutrient deficiency as the growth will be stunted with the formation of distorted tender leaves at the top.