Octocoral polyps are related to soft corals but since they grow low to the ground they are not nearly as noticeable on a reef or in an aquarium. Octocoral polyps are commonly called clove, glove and daisy polyps. Most of the corals in this group are a type of Stoloniferan.

Instead of growing from a common colony, Octocoral polyps are connected by a creeping stalk. The polyps have eight prominent tentacles with a varying degree of pinnules which give the tentacles a feathery appearance. When the pinnules are not prominent the polyp bears resemblance to a flower. The overall colony appearance is that of a mat of feathers or a small field of flowers.

Like many other corals, the flow requirements of this group is often under estimated. Under reduced water flow conditions the dense growth of polyps trap unwated detritus which can lead to anoxia and then decay. As long as the water flow speed is appropriate the lighting requirements of octocoral polyps can be of moderate to intermediate intensity.

Octocoral polyps spread very well under ideal conditions. To separate polyps from the colony mat the creeping rhyzome can be carefully peeled and reattached using super glue. Alternatively it may be easier to break the base which has been overgrown.