Staurogyne repens (Creeping Staurogyne)

13 November 2026

Staurogyne repens is a compact South American stem plant valued for forming a low, leafy foreground or midground planting. Its creeping habit develops best when stems are planted individually and trimmed regularly. It tolerates a range of aquarium conditions, but stronger light, reliable nutrition and carbon availability generally produce denser growth. The supplied material is consistent with this species, although cultivar or trade-form variation cannot be excluded from images alone.

Identification

Staurogyne repens is a low-growing aquatic stem plant with opposite, green leaves and branching stems. In aquariums it commonly grows horizontally or diagonally when trimmed, forming a compact mound. Exact appearance varies with cultivation, light and nutrient availability; image-based identification cannot confirm a particular commercial strain.

Planting

Remove the plant from its growing medium, rinse away loose material and divide the mass into small portions. Plant individual stems with tweezers, leaving the leaves above the substrate and spacing portions slightly apart. Avoid burying the entire stem, as buried portions can decay.

Light and carbon

Medium light is suitable for steady growth. Carbon dioxide is not always essential, but consistent carbon availability usually improves rooting, branching and compact form. Without added carbon, provide stable conditions and expect slower or less dense growth.

Substrate and nutrition

Use a fine to medium-grained substrate that allows the roots to anchor. The plant benefits from a complete supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and trace elements. Root-zone nutrition can help, although regular water-column fertilization is also useful because this is a stem plant.

Trimming and propagation

Trim the tops when stems become tall or shade lower leaves. Replant healthy cuttings to expand the group, and remove weak or deteriorating lower sections. Frequent moderate trimming encourages branching and helps maintain a low foreground profile.

Acclimation

Commercial plants may be grown emersed and can shed older leaves after submersion. Remove decaying tissue, maintain stable water quality and allow new submerged foliage to develop. Good circulation and avoiding excessive shading help limit algae on the leaves.

Plant info

Colors: Green, Dark green, Light green
Difficulty: Easy
Origin: South America
Usage: Foreground
Type: Stem plant
Growth rate: Medium
Height: 5-10 cm
Light demand: Medium
CO2: Medium

Staurogyne repens

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Staurogyne repens

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