Eustralis Stellata "Red"

🌿 Plant Profile

• Scientific Name: Hygrophila pinnatifida

• Common Name: Pinnatifida Hygro

• Origin: India

• Height: 15–40 cm (6–16 inches)

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5

• Care: Moderate

• Light: Moderate to high

• CO₂: Recommended for compact growth and rich coloration

• Propagation: Side shoots or cuttings

• Growth Rate: Moderate

🌱 Care Notes

• Leaf Texture & Color: Hygrophila pinnatifida has deeply lobed, fern-like leaves with a unique, reddish-brown to olive green coloration and a striking purple underside under good lighting and CO₂ conditions. The textured leaves add contrast and complexity to any aquascape.

• Placement: Versatile—can be used in the midground or background, and also attached to driftwood or rocks. It's excellent for natural or jungle-style aquascapes.

• Water Conditions: Prefers soft to moderately hard water and tropical temperatures between 22–28°C (72–82°F). Stable parameters help maintain health and coloration.

• Lighting: Moderate to high lighting is needed to bring out its best colors and to keep growth compact and bushy. In low light, it may become leggy and lose color vibrancy.

• CO₂: Recommended, especially in high-light setups. CO₂ enhances color, texture, and growth rate. While it can survive without it, growth will be slower and less decorative.

• Fertilization: Needs liquid fertilizers, particularly those with micronutrients and iron, to maintain vibrant leaf color. Root tabs can help if grown in substrate.

• Propagation: Reproduces through side shoots and cuttings. Cut the stem and replant it in the substrate or attach it to hardscape.

• Growth Rate: Moderate, but improves significantly with good light, CO₂, and fertilization.