Pogostemon helferi

Aquarists in Thailand, near the border with Burma, discovered this plant. It's called 'Downoi' (little star) in Thailand, and it's easy to see why (5-10 cm tall and wide). Pogostemon helferi is an unusual and distinctive aquatic plant with a compact habit, curled leaves, and a strikingly beautiful green color.

With good light conditions and a nutrient-rich substrate, Pogostemon helferi forms many lateral shoots that develop small roots, and the plant quickly forms an impressive carpet of vegetation in the foreground.