More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 15°C / 59.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 2-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 20-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Pogostemon helferi, commonly known as Downoi, is an aquatic plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It was first discovered for aquaristic purposes in 1996 in the Thai province of Kanchanaburi, bordering Myanmar. This plant is characterized by its striking flower spikes typical of the Pogostemon genus and thrives in fast-flowing rivers with limestone substrate during the rainy season.
Aquarium Suitability
Pogostemon helferi is highly suitable for aquariums and has gained popularity as a foreground and midground plant. It is best utilized for accentuating the middleground in nano or small aquariums and can also be placed in the foreground in larger tanks. This plant is also a great choice for paludariums, where it can be cultivated partially emersed and partially submersed.
Demands and Hardiness
To thrive in an aquarium setting, P. helferi requires specific conditions. Adequate lighting (0.5-1+ watt per liter), a sufficient supply of CO2, and proper fertilization with nitrate, phosphate, potassium, and magnesium are essential. The plant responds well to an iron-rich environment with lush green leaf coloration. It is not winter-hardy and is unsuitable for outdoor use in colder climates.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, Pogostemon helferi is commonly used as an epiphyte, growing on hardscape elements like wood or rocks. It can be attached to these surfaces using nylon thread, taking care to avoid bruising. This plant is suitable for group plantings and adds visual appeal to both nano and larger aquarium setups.
Propagation
Propagation of P. helferi is relatively easy and can be achieved through cuttings or splitting the plant. Using a sharp cutting tool, cut the plant close to a node and ensure the cutting is securely planted in the substrate. Both top and lateral cuttings can be successful, with planting best done using plant tweezers to avoid damaging the plant.
Habitat and Distribution
Pogostemon helferi is native to northwest Thailand, particularly found on the border with Myanmar. It thrives in fast-flowing rivers with limestone substrate where it grows on and between rocks. The plant experiences submersion during summer and forms upright shoots with flower spikes during autumn and winter.