Rotala mexicana – Aquarium Plant Care & Profile

Rotala mexicana – Aquarium Plant Care & Profile

The Rotala mexicana is a beautiful stem plant known for its fine, delicate leaves and fast growth in freshwater aquariums. It thrives in well-lit setups and can display colors ranging from bright green to shades of red or pink depending on light intensity and nutrients. Ideal for aquascapers, it works wonderfully as a midground to background plant in both Dutch-style and nature-style layouts.

🌊 Quick Facts:

• Scientific Name: Rotala mexicana
• Common Name: Rotala mexicana
• Placement: Midground to background
• Lighting: Medium to high
• CO₂: Strongly recommended for vibrant growth & coloration
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Height: 12–20 inches (with trimming)
• Care Level: Intermediate

✨ Why Choose Rotala mexicana?

• Attractive, feathery foliage creates lush texture in aquascapes
• Can display pink to red hues under strong lighting and CO₂
• Fast growth helps compete against algae
• Easy to propagate by stem cuttings
• Perfect for aquascapers seeking contrast with green plants

💡 Care Tips:

• Provide strong lighting and CO₂ injection for best coloration.
• Trim regularly to prevent overgrowth and encourage bushy clusters.
• Plant in nutrient-rich substrate and dose liquid fertilizers for optimal health.
• Works beautifully in groups to form dense, colorful backgrounds.

❓ Rotala mexicana – FAQ

Does Rotala mexicana need CO₂?
Yes, while it can survive without CO₂, it thrives with CO₂ injection, producing faster growth and brighter red or pink hues under high light.

How do you trim Rotala mexicana?
Trim stems regularly with sharp scissors and replant the cuttings. This encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from shading lower leaves.

What color does Rotala mexicana turn in aquariums?
In medium light it remains mostly green, but with strong light and nutrients it can develop pink to deep red tones.

Where should Rotala mexicana be placed in an aquarium?
It is best used as a midground to background plant, where its height and feathery texture create a dense, colorful backdrop.

Is Rotala mexicana a fast-growing plant?
Yes. It grows quickly under the right conditions, making it excellent for outcompeting algae and filling in aquascapes.

What water conditions does Rotala mexicana prefer?
It thrives in 72–82°F, pH 6.0–7.5, with soft to moderately hard water. Stable, clean water enhances its growth.

Can beginners keep Rotala mexicana?
It’s considered intermediate—hardy enough for beginners willing to provide good lighting and fertilizers, but best for aquarists ready to trim and maintain regularly.