Staurogyne sp. "Porto Velho"

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Foreground

It is an excellent choice for the foreground and lower midground, naturally preferring to creep along the substrate. It works incredibly well when draped over small rocks or nestled tightly against the base of larger hardscape materials. High light must reach it unimpeded.

Botanical form

Stem

This species features distinctly narrow, lanceolate leaves that are a unique purplish-grey or dull grey-green color under good light. It grows via highly creeping horizontal stems that root readily at every node. It looks quite different from S. repens due to its sharper leaf shape and darker, muted color palette.

Growth

Medium

The growth rate is moderate to slow, requiring patience as it establishes a dense, creeping mat. With optimal CO2 injection and intense lighting, its growth rate improves, and it forms a much tighter carpet. In sub-optimal conditions, growth stalls significantly.

Substrate

High

To achieve its characteristic dense, carpeting growth, Staurogyne sp. "Porto Velho" requires a nutrient-packed aqua soil. Its aggressive rooting behavior allows it to spread rapidly and anchor itself firmly in the soil. Providing a fine-grained substrate with a depth of 4-5 cm is optimal for nurturing its demanding root system.

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilization should be steady and balanced to support its slow but steady biomass increase. Since it has a somewhat delicate appearance, ensuring a continuous supply of trace elements prevents the newer leaves from becoming pale or stunted. Good water circulation is necessary to deliver these nutrients.

Root fertilization

Recommended

A nutrient-packed substrate is virtually mandatory for this species to achieve its full potential. Root tabs or high-quality aquasoil provide the deep-seated nourishment required for its extensive adventitious root system. The stronger the root base, the denser the carpet.

Trimming

Regular

Trimming should focus on cutting back any stems that dare to grow vertically. Frequent, careful pruning encourages the plant to branch aggressively and hug the substrate more tightly. Replant the healthy tops to expand the carpet.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is straightforward via stem cuttings. Simply snip the creeping stems into smaller sections, ensuring each piece has a few nodes, and gently plant them into the substrate. They take a little time to root but will eventually spread.

Sensitivity

Moderate

It is notably more sensitive than other Staurogyne species, strongly disliking fluctuations in CO2 levels or water chemistry. It is prone to melting if conditions deteriorate or if it is heavily shaded. It demands high water quality and good flow to stave off algae.

Layout role

group, Foreground, Midground, Nano

Its unique leaf shape and muted grey-purple coloration make it a premium choice for highly detailed aquascapes. It provides exceptional contrast when placed near bright green carpeting plants or bright red focal stems. It excels as a transitional creeping plant.