Rotala rotundifolia Care Guide
A stem plant that shifts from green to pink and red under high light. Rotala rotundifolia is fast-growing and works well for colorful backgrounds.
Why Keep Rotala rotundifolia?
Care Requirements
| Parameter | Acceptable Range | Ideal |
|---|---|---|
| Lighting | Medium to High | High (80-120+ PAR) |
| CO2 | Recommended | 20-30 ppm for best color |
| Temperature | 68-82°F (20-28°C) | 72-78°F (22-26°C) |
| pH | 5.5-7.5 | 6.0-7.0 |
| GH | 2-15 dGH | 4-10 dGH |
| Substrate | Required | Nutrient-rich substrate |
| Fertilization | Medium-High | Iron-rich fertilizer + macros |
Planting & Placement
Planting Tips
Rotala is a stem plant that roots easily from cuttings. Plant stems directly into substrate with at least 1-2 nodes buried.
Placement Options
Use Rotala in midground to background. It creates beautiful color contrast when placed next to green plants.
Propagation
Rotala propagates easily through stem cuttings. Cut the top portion and replant - both the top and remaining stem will continue growing.
Getting Red Coloration
The red color in Rotala is a stress response to high light intensity. Here is how to maximize red coloration.
Keys to Red Color
- High light intensity - 80+ PAR at plant level, ideally 100+
- CO2 injection - 20-30 ppm enables healthy growth under high light
- Limit nitrogen - Keep nitrates under 10 ppm (low ratio to other nutrients)
- High phosphate - Maintain 1-2 ppm phosphate
- Dose iron - Extra iron intensifies red pigments
- Keep trimmed short - Closer to light = more intense color
Color Scale
Rotala Varieties
Several Rotala varieties are available, each with slightly different coloration potential and growth habits.
| Variety | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rotala rotundifolia | 6-20 inches | Classic variety, green to pink under high light |
| Rotala rotundifolia "Green" | 6-16 inches | Stays green even under high light |
| Rotala rotundifolia "H'Ra" | 8-20 inches | Intense orange-red coloration |
| Rotala rotundifolia "Colorata" | 6-16 inches | Pink-red tops, easy to color up |
| Rotala indica | 6-12 inches | Smaller leaves, compact growth |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my rotala not turning red?
Rotala requires high light (80+ PAR), CO2 injection, and iron-rich fertilization to develop red coloration. Limiting nitrates (below 10 ppm) while maintaining high phosphates and iron also intensifies reds. The red pigments are a stress response to high light - without enough light intensity, Rotala stays green.
How do I trim rotala?
Cut stems at the desired height using sharp scissors. The cut stem will branch below the cut, creating bushier growth. Replant the healthy tops for more plants. Stagger cuts at different heights for a natural look. Trim every 1-2 weeks to prevent bare, woody bottoms.
Does rotala need CO2?
Rotala can survive without CO2 but will grow slowly and stay green. For the best red/pink coloration and healthy compact growth, CO2 injection at 20-30 ppm is highly recommended. Without CO2, provide excellent lighting and fertilization for modest results.
Why are the bottom leaves of my rotala falling off?
Bottom leaves drop when light cannot reach lower stems (blocked by dense top growth) or due to nutrient deficiency. Trim regularly to prevent shading. Ensure adequate iron and potassium. Some bottom leaf loss is normal on tall stems - replanting healthy tops refreshes the look.
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