Rotala rotundifolia

Rotala rotundifolia is a popular freshwater aquarium plant known for its versatility, beautiful coloration, and ease of care. Here's a quick overview for your aquascaping needs:

🔍 Overview:

• Scientific Name: Rotala rotundifolia
• Family: Lythraceae
• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Type: Stem plant
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Height: 10–30+ cm (4–12+ inches)
• Light Requirement: Moderate to high
• CO₂ Requirement: Not required, but enhances growth and color
• Temperature Range: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🌿 Appearance:

• Despite its name meaning "round leaf," the leaves are more elongated and narrow under submerged conditions.
• In high light and with CO₂, the leaves turn a vivid pinkish-red—especially the tops.
• In lower light or no CO₂, they remain green with a more modest appearance.

✂️ Care Tips:

• Trimming: Trim regularly to encourage bushy, dense growth and prevent it from overshadowing lower plants.
• Replanting: You can replant the trimmings to propagate.
• Spacing: Plant stems a little apart to allow light to reach the bottom and prevent rot.
• Nutrients: Benefits greatly from root tabs and/or liquid fertilizers (especially iron for red coloration).

🧠 Pro Tip: *Recommended, Not Required*

To bring out its best colors, give it:

• High PAR lighting
• CO₂ injection
• A nutrient-rich substrate or regular dosing with macros and micros