Source: Wikimedia Commons
Stargrass
BeginnerHeteranthera zosterifolia
A Brazilian stem plant with narrow, bright green lanceolate leaves that branches freely into a bush. Easily trimmed to any height, it works from foreground to background, and shoots reaching the surface bear small blue flowers.
About
Stargrass (Heteranthera zosterifolia, Pontederiaceae) is a stem plant of still waters and marshes in South America, including Brazil; its name refers to leaves like those of eelgrass (Zostera). Narrow, bright green lanceolate leaves alternate along the stem, and it branches profusely to form a bush quickly. Stems reach 30–50 cm and groups 6–12 cm wide, and the leaf undersides may darken. Long established in the hobby, it is used in both Dutch-style and nature aquariums and can be trimmed to suit foreground to background. It is a good indicator plant: with too little nitrate the leaves turn translucent before wilting, and with too little phosphate the bright green darkens. In medium light it grows without CO2, but strong light and CO2 make growth vigorous and leaves larger. Prune before it becomes so dense that light cannot reach the lower leaves. Water roots form readily on the stems; cut there and replant to propagate. In open tanks, shoots allowed onto the surface produce small blue flowers. It is a staple stem plant at specialist shops in Japan.
Size of the Stargrass
The Stargrass grows to Stems 30–50 cm tall, 6–12 cm wide.
Temperature & humidity for the Stargrass
The ideal temperature for the Stargrass is 20〜25℃.
Basic Info
Origin
South America (including Brazil)
Lifespan
Perennial; maintained by replanting cuttings
Size
Stems 30–50 cm tall, 6–12 cm wide
Temperature
20〜25℃
Watering & Fertilizer
CO2 optional; nitrate and phosphate shortages show quickly in the leaves
Growing Tips
Lighting
Grows in medium light; strong light makes it bush fast, so prune early to keep light on the lower leaves.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Grows without CO2 in medium light; CO2 boosts growth and leaf size. Translucent leaves suggest nitrate shortage, dark leaves phosphate shortage.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 20–25°C; tolerates pH 5–8.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant in groups; trimmed to height it fits anywhere from foreground to background.
Trimming & Propagation
Cut below the water roots that form on stems and replant.
Cautions
Dense growth sheds lower leaves, so cut back regularly. Never release plants into the wild.
Stargrass FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Stargrass?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Stargrass?
The ideal temperature for Stargrass is 20〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Stargrass get?
The mature size of Stargrass is Stems 30–50 cm tall, 6–12 cm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Stargrass?
Stargrass: watering & fertilizer — CO2 optional; nitrate and phosphate shortages show quickly in the leaves. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Stargrass?
The price of Stargrass varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act or Species Conservation Act. Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Aquatic Plant Tank Used Soil and Substrate Disposal and Recycling Methods | Correct Disposal Methods and Reuse Tips
Explains the correct disposal methods for used substrate in aquatic plant tanks. Introduces the proper disposal procedures according to local municipal rules and the concept of reuse for short-term usage.
Beginner-Friendly Aquatic Plants Without CO2 Supplementation | Cultivation Conditions and Tank Layout Strategies
You can create a beautiful aquarium without expensive CO2 equipment. This guide explains practical methods for selecting CO2-free aquatic plants that beginners can successfully grow, from cultivation conditions to tank layout strategies.
How to Cultivate Rotala and Bring Out Beautiful Red Color | Lighting, CO2, and Trimming Techniques to Achieve Vibrant Red
This guide explains the Rotala genus, popular in aquatic plant layouts, covering light intensity, CO2, and fertilizer management to bring out red coloration, as well as trimming techniques for maintaining beautiful, dense growth.
Rare Attachment-Type Aquatic Plants Beyond Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Willow Moss | The Charm of Distinctive Varieties like Bolbitis
Beyond the standard attachment-type aquatic plants—Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Willow Moss—there are distinctive attachment-type aquatic plants like Bolbitis. This article introduces their charm, cultivation tips, and how to incorporate them into aquascaping layouts.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.