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Description
Pogostemon Sampsonii, also known as Sampson’s Pogostemon, is a species of aquatic plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows naturally in streams and rivers. It is a popular plant for aquariums due to its unique appearance and easy care guide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Pogostemon |
Appearance
The Pogostemon Sampsonii has a unique appearance with its elongated, narrow leaves that grow in opposite pairs on the stem. The leaves are green with a hint of purple or reddish-brown and have a shiny, glossy texture. The plant can grow up to 5-10 cm in height and 5-10 cm in width.
Care Guide
The Pogostemon Sampsonii is an easy care plant that requires minimal maintenance. It can be grown both submerged and emersed in an aquarium.
Water: The plant requires clean and clear water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.
Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with liquid or substrate fertilizers.
Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of substrates such as sand, gravel, or aquasoil.
Sunlight: The plant prefers moderate to high lighting conditions of 3-5 watts per gallon.
Hardiness Zones: The plant can withstand a wide range of temperatures between 20-28°C (68-82°F).
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pogostemon Sampsonii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by algae growth due to excess nutrients in the water. To prevent algae growth, maintain proper water conditions and limit the amount of light exposure.
Habitat
The Pogostemon Sampsonii is native to Southeast Asia, where it grows naturally in streams and rivers. It prefers slow-moving or still water with a moderate current. The plant grows best in a tropical climate with high humidity and warm temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Pogostemon Sampsonii grow in low lighting conditions?
A: While the plant can survive in low lighting conditions, it may not grow as well as it would in moderate to high lighting conditions.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pogostemon Sampsonii?
A: It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a week with a liquid or substrate fertilizer.
Q: Can Pogostemon Sampsonii be grown in a cold-water aquarium?
A: The plant prefers warm water temperatures between 20-28°C (68-82°F) and may not survive in a cold-water aquarium.
Q: Can Pogostemon Sampsonii be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings and planting them in the substrate.
Related Plants
- Pogostemon Helferi
- Pogostemon Erectus
- Pogostemon Stellatus
References
- Chen, C. J., Kuo, P. H., & Shii, C. T. (2014). Effects of light intensity and photoperiod on growth of Pogostemon stellatus and Pogostemon yatabeanus. International Journal of Agriculture and Biology, 16(5), 967-972.
- Dennerle. (n.d.). Pogostemon stellatus Octopus [PDF file]. Retrieved from https://www.dennerle.com/en/products/aquaristics/new-plants/pogostemon-stellatus-octopus
- Lim, T. K. (2013). Edible medicinal and non-medicinal plants (Vol. 8). Springer Science & Business Media.
