Stargrass (Heteranthera zosterifolia) Care Guide
A beautiful stem plant with whorls of narrow, star-shaped leaves that create a dense, bushy appearance. Fast-growing and undemanding, it forms an attractive background when planted in groups.
Overview
Heteranthera zosterifolia is an aquatic plant in the family Pontederiaceae. A beautiful stem plant with whorls of narrow, star-shaped leaves that create a dense, bushy appearance. Fast-growing and undemanding, it forms an attractive background when planted in groups. Regular trimming encourages compact lateral growth.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pontederiaceae
- Genus: Heteranthera
- Scientific name: Heteranthera zosterifolia
- Other names: Star Grass, Heteranthera zosterifolia
Habitat
Native to tropical and subtropical South America (Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia). Family Pontederiaceae. Submerged stems carry narrow zostera-like leaves and produce small light-blue flowers above water.
Growth requirements
- Light: medium (≈50-80 PAR at substrate)
- CO2: optional (CO2 improves growth and coloration)
- Temperature: 20-28 °C
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil or fertilised gravel
- Nutrient demand: medium
- Growth rate: fast
- Difficulty: beginner
Placement
- Recommended placement: background
- Maximum height: 50 cm
- Trim every: 7 days
Propagation
In cultivation the plant is propagated by stem cuttings (replant the upper portion after trimming).