Eusteralis stellata – Hefty (5cm Pot) Care Guide

Eusteralis stellata, often referred to as Stargrass, is a popular aquatic plant used in aquascaping for its elegant, star-shaped leaves. The “Hefty” variety is known for its larger, thicker growth compared to other strains, making it a striking choice in larger aquascapes. Here’s a care guide to help you keep this plant thriving:

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: Best suited for medium to large aquariums (20 gallons or more). Eusteralis stellata can grow tall and spread, so it’s ideal for tanks with enough space.
• Lighting: High; this plant requires bright lighting to maintain compact growth and vibrant color. In low light, it can become leggy and less colorful.
• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F); thrives in warm, tropical conditions.
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5; slightly acidic to neutral water is ideal.
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–12 dGH).
• Substrate: Prefers a nutrient-rich substrate for optimal growth. Aquasoil, fine gravel, or a specialized aquarium soil are ideal options.
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast; Eusteralis stellata grows quickly in the right conditions, making it ideal for creating lush, dense areas in aquascapes. It may need regular pruning to keep its shape in check.
• CO2 Requirement: Yes; CO2 supplementation significantly promotes healthy, compact growth and vibrant coloration. While it can survive without CO2, it thrives with it.

Key Tips

• Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to prevent the plant from becoming too tall and leggy. Trim back any excess growth to maintain its compact shape and encourage side branching.
• Fertilization: Use liquid fertilizers containing micronutrients, such as iron and potassium, to keep the plant healthy. Root tabs can also be added to provide nutrients for the roots, especially if you have a gravel substrate.
• Water Flow: Prefers moderate to high water flow. A good flow helps prevent the plant from becoming too leggy and promotes even growth.
• Placement: Eusteralis stellata works well in the midground or background of an aquascape. In larger tanks, it can be used to create a lush backdrop or as a central plant in a more structured aquascape.
• Propagation: Eusteralis stellata can be propagated by cutting healthy stems and replanting them. The cuttings will root quickly, allowing you to spread the plant across the substrate.

Additional Care Notes:

• Leaf Care: The plant’s star-shaped leaves can accumulate debris or algae, so gently clean them if needed.
• Growth Conditions: Eusteralis stellata will thrive in high-light conditions with good CO2 supplementation, but it can also adapt to lower light with slower growth.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes are important to maintain water quality and keep the plant healthy, especially if you are growing multiple plants in a densely planted tank.

Eusteralis stellata – Hefty is a beautiful and relatively low-maintenance plant that adds dynamic height and texture to aquascapes. By providing it with the right care, including adequate lighting, CO2, and nutrients, you can enjoy a healthy and vibrant plant that will enhance your aquarium for months to come.