Clinopodium brownei

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

This versatile plant can be placed in the midground or background of an aquascape, depending on how it is trimmed. It can also be grown emersed, making it an excellent choice for paludariums where it can trail over hardscape or spill down the sides of the enclosure. In an aquarium, it should be planted in groups to create a dense, bushy effect.

Botanical form

Stem

It features delicate, rounded to slightly oval leaves that grow in opposite pairs along thin, trailing or upright stems. When crushed, the leaves emit a distinct minty or savory fragrance, hinting at its relation to the mint family. The submerged form is generally more delicate and lighter green compared to its robust, darker emersed counterpart.

Growth

Fast

Under optimal conditions with high light and CO2 injection, Clinopodium brownei exhibits a fast growth rate, quickly reaching the water surface. In low-tech setups, its growth is more moderate but still steady. Its rapid growth makes it a great candidate for absorbing excess nutrients and competing with algae.

Substrate

Medium

Column fertilization

Recommended

Regular liquid fertilization is highly recommended to support its fast growth and maintain lush foliage. A comprehensive fertilizer containing both macro and micronutrients will keep the plant healthy and prevent the lower leaves from melting or dropping off. It is particularly responsive to iron dosing, which enhances its vibrant green coloration.

Root fertilization

None

While it absorbs a significant portion of its nutrients through the water column, it also develops a strong root system. A nutrient-rich substrate or the addition of root tabs will promote robust growth and thicker stems. Good root nutrition helps the plant recover quickly after heavy pruning.

Trimming

Occasional

Due to its fast growth, frequent trimming is necessary to maintain its shape and prevent it from shading out other plants. To create a bushy appearance, simply top the stems and replant the cuttings; the original stems will produce multiple side shoots. Regular pruning also prevents the lower portions of the stems from becoming bare due to lack of light.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is incredibly easy and is done primarily through stem cuttings. Simply snip a healthy stem above a leaf node and plant the cutting directly into the substrate. The cutting will quickly develop roots, and the remaining stem will branch out, creating a denser bush.

Sensitivity

Moderate

This plant is relatively hardy and adaptable to a wide range of water parameters, though it prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is sensitive to poor lighting, which will cause it to become leggy and drop its lower leaves. It transitions well between submersed and emersed states, making it very forgiving for aquascapers.

Layout role

Midground, Background

Clinopodium brownei is highly valued for its bright green color and delicate leaf shape, providing excellent contrast against broad-leaved plants or dark hardscape. It serves well as a midground bush when kept trimmed or as a background filler in taller tanks. In Wabi-Kusa or ripariums, its trailing nature adds a natural, wild aesthetic.