Why is my Rotala rotundifolia green instead of red?

To achieve vibrant red or pink colouration, this plant requires high-intensity lighting, CO2 injection, and regular iron supplementation. Many aquascapers also employ 'nitrate limitation' to coax out the deepest red colours.

Why are the lower leaves falling off my Rotala?

Leaf drop at the base of the stem is usually caused by insufficient light. As the top of the plant grows dense and bushy, it casts shade on its own lower stems, causing the plant to shed leaves that can no longer photosynthesise effectively.

How do I trim and propagate Rotala rotundifolia?

Use sharp aquascaping scissors to cut the stem anywhere along its length. You can then replant the top cutting into the substrate, where it will grow roots. The original rooted portion will sprout two or more side shoots, creating a bushier plant.

Can I grow Rotala rotundifolia without CO2?

Yes, it is a very hardy plant and will grow quite well in low-tech aquariums without supplemental CO2. However, in these conditions, it will grow more slowly and its leaves will generally remain bright green.

Does Rotala rotundifolia require aquasoil to grow?

While a nutrient-rich aquasoil promotes faster and more robust growth, it is not strictly necessary. Rotala rotundifolia draws many of its nutrients directly from the water column and will grow well in plain sand or gravel provided you dose a quality liquid fertiliser.

FreshwaterPlantsBeginner

Rotala Rotundifolia

Rotala rotundifolia

A versatile, fast-growing stem plant known for its ability to transition from vibrant green to striking red under optimal aquarium conditions.

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Ideal Conditions

Temperature: 18 – 30 °C
pH range: 5.5 – 7.5
Hardness: 2 – 15 dGH
Adult size: 15 – 50 cm
Nano tank or larger: 20 litres+
Lifespan: 1 – 5 years
Diet: Photosynthetic
Water flow: low to moderate
Preferred setup: Nutrient-rich substrate or liquid dosing, suitable for midground to background planting.

About the Rotala Rotundifolia

Rotala rotundifolia is an iconic and highly popular stem plant in the freshwater aquarium hobby. Deriving its name from its round emersed leaves, it is a staple of planted aquariums worldwide. Its ability to thrive in a wide range of water parameters makes it an excellent choice for beginners, whilst its stunning potential for red colouration appeals greatly to advanced aquascapers. Whether used to create dense background bushes or colourful midground focal points, it remains one of the most reliable aquatic plants available.

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Where Rotala Rotundifolia comes from

Native range

Southeast Asia, East Asia

Countries / regions

China, India, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam

Habitat

Found in marshes, along riverbanks, and in rice paddies, often growing both submerged and emersed depending on seasonal water levels.

Similar species

Rotala macrandra
Rotala macrandra
Rotala wallichii
Rotala wallichii
Ludwigia repens
Ludwigia repens

We’re adding more full species guides as the catalogue grows.

Compatible tank mates

Reviewed guidance based on this species' recorded traits.

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Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
Shrimp thrive amidst the dense foliage, which provides excellent grazing surfaces and safe hiding spots for shrimplets.
Great
Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
Small, peaceful shoaling fish contrast beautifully against the red and green stems without causing any damage to the delicate leaves.
Great
Otocinclus
Otocinclus vittatus
These diminutive catfish will gently clean algae off the plant's leaves without harming the underlying tissue.
Great
Siamese Algae Eater
Crossocheilus oblongus
Generally safe, but larger or underfed individuals have been known to occasionally nibble on softer, delicate stem plants.
Compatible with caution
Silver Dollar
Metynnis argenteus
Strictly herbivorous fish will rapidly consume the soft leaves and stems, destroying the plant entirely.
Not recommended

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