Staurogyne Repens

Staurogyne repens is a compact, low-growing freshwater aquatic plant from the Rio Cristalino region in Brazil. It belongs to the Acanthaceae family and is known for its bright to deep green leaves, sturdy stems, and bushy, creeping growth habit. With proper care, it forms a dense carpet or low mid-ground bush in planted aquariums. The plant grows slowly at first but becomes thicker and sends out new side shoots and runners once established. Its durability and adaptability make it popular for aquascaping, especially in nature and Iwagumi-style layouts.

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Care Requirements

Category Details

Lighting Medium to high light for compact, lush growth. Low light causes legginess.

CO₂ Not required but highly recommended — improves density and color.

Temperature 72–82°F (22–28°C)

Water Parameters pH 6.0–7.5 • Soft to medium hardness

Substrate Nutrient-rich substrate preferred (root feeder)

Growth Rate Moderate; faster with CO₂ and strong light

Placement Foreground to midground

Propagation Trim stems and replant cuttings; plant in small groups

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Care Tips

Plant individual stems or small clusters 1–2 inches apart to allow spreading.

Use root tabs if the substrate lacks nutrients.

Trim regularly to maintain a low, carpet-like form.

Avoid shading the plant with taller plants to keep foliage compact.