A Staurogyne repens either thrives or melts within the first month, and the difference is almost always down to three things you can control. The Staurogyne repens Staurogyne repens is a workhorse plant for a reason: it tolerates a wide range of conditions and still looks good doing it.

At a glance

Lightmedium
Temperature22 to 28 °C
pH6.0 to 7.5
Height5 to 15 cm
CO₂optional
Growthmoderate

Planting

Plant Staurogyne repens with the crown or rhizome clear of the substrate — burying it rots the base. In a 23-gallon tank, position it mid-ground or background depending on its height. Weaker setups do fine; pair it with the java moss care: the indestructible carpeting moss for a layered look.

Light and CO₂

Run 8 hours of light a day on a timer to avoid algae swings. Staurogyne repens grows under medium light and optional, though a small, steady dose of liquid fertiliser every 3 weeks pushes denser growth.

Propagation

Trim and replant the low side shoots for a carpet.

Common issues

Yellowing lower leaves usually mean a nutrient gap, not too little light. Trim dying leaves at the base, keep nitrates around 10 to 20 ppm, and avoid moving the plant every week — the anubias care: the indestructible aquarium plant explains why stability beats tinkering.