Rotala Hra – Orange Red Aquarium Stem Plant
Rotala Hra is a stunning variety of Rotala rotundifolia known for its intense orange to red coloration under strong lighting. This highly popular aquarium stem plant develops compact, colorful growth that creates dramatic contrast in freshwater planted aquariums.
When provided with high light, stable CO2, and consistent nutrients, Rotala Hra can produce vibrant warm tones ranging from orange to deep red. Its slender stems and fine leaves allow it to form dense, bushy clusters when trimmed regularly, making it an excellent choice for midground to background placement in aquascapes.
Key Features
- Bright orange to deep red aquarium stem plant
- Compact, dense growth under strong lighting
- Excellent midground or background accent plant
- Creates bold visual contrast in planted tanks
- Can be trimmed and replanted for bushier growth
- Great choice for colorful aquascaping layouts
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Rotala rotundifolia ‘Hra’
- Common Name: Rotala Hra
- Plant Type: Stem aquarium plant
- Placement: Midground to background
- Lighting: High light recommended for intense coloration
- Temperature: 72–82°F
- pH: 5.8–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderate
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Care Level: Moderate
- CO2: Recommended for vibrant color and compact growth
- Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate recommended
Tank Placement
Rotala Hra works best as a midground or background stem plant in freshwater planted aquariums. Plant stems individually with slight spacing between each stem so light can reach the lower leaves and encourage healthier, fuller growth.
Its fiery orange-red coloration looks especially striking when planted near bright green stem plants, carpeting plants, natural stone, or dark driftwood. Rotala Hra is a great choice for aquascapes that need warm color, movement, and bold contrast.
Lighting, CO2 & Nutrients
Rotala Hra develops its strongest orange to red coloration under high lighting. Lower lighting may cause the plant to stay greener, grow taller, or become less compact.
CO2 is highly recommended for Rotala Hra, especially when vibrant color and dense growth are desired. Stable CO2, consistent macro and micronutrient dosing, and regular aquarium maintenance help support compact stems, healthy leaves, and intense coloration.
Trimming & Propagation
Trim Rotala Hra regularly to maintain shape and encourage dense, bushy growth. Healthy stem tops can be replanted directly into the substrate to create fuller clusters or expand the plant into other areas of the aquarium.
Regular trimming helps prevent shading, keeps lower leaves healthier, and encourages compact growth. In high-light aquariums with CO2 and steady nutrients, Rotala Hra may need routine trimming to keep its best appearance.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Freshwater planted aquariums
- Midground to background planting
- Orange-red accent planting
- Dutch-style aquascapes
- Nature-style aquascapes
- High-tech planted tanks
- Contrast planting against green aquarium plants
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep Rotala Hra bright red or orange?
Provide strong lighting, stable CO2, and balanced macro and micronutrients. These conditions help Rotala Hra develop stronger orange to red coloration and compact growth.
Is Rotala Hra beginner-friendly?
Rotala Hra is best suited for intermediate hobbyists because it needs good lighting, steady nutrients, and stable CO2 to show its best color.
How tall does Rotala Hra grow?
Rotala Hra typically grows around 10–20 inches tall depending on lighting, nutrients, CO2, trimming, and overall aquarium conditions.
Does Rotala Hra require CO2?
CO2 is highly recommended for vibrant color, compact growth, and healthier stems. It may grow without CO2, but color and density may be reduced.
Where should I place Rotala Hra in my aquarium?
Rotala Hra works best as a midground or background plant where its orange-red stems can stand out against green plants and hardscape.
How do I trim and propagate Rotala Hra?
Trim healthy stem tops and replant the cuttings directly into the substrate. This encourages fuller, bushier groups over time.
Why is my Rotala Hra turning green?
Green growth is usually caused by lower lighting, unstable CO2, limited nutrients, or shading. Strong light, steady CO2, and balanced fertilization help improve orange-red coloration.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Rotala Hra is a vibrant orange-red aquarium stem plant for aquarists looking to add fiery color, contrast, and movement to freshwater planted tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, and aquarium supplies.
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