Rotala Care Guide

Scientific Genus: Rotala spp.
Common Names: Rotala, Rotala species (e.g., Rotala rotundifolia, Rotala wallichii, Rotala indica)
Family: Lythraceae
Origin: Asia, with some species native to Africa and the Americas

Rotala is a diverse genus of aquatic stem plants that are highly valued in aquascaping for their versatility, vibrant coloration, and delicate appearance. With species ranging from easy to challenging, Rotala plants are excellent for filling in midground or background spaces while offering lush textures and bold color accents.

Rotala is a genus of stem plants that varies widely in form and coloration. Common species include Rotala rotundifolia, Rotala indica, Rotala wallichii, Rotala macrandra, and Rotala h'ra. Most have narrow, elongated leaves that grow in pairs or whorls along vertical stems, with colors ranging from green and orange to bright red and pink under ideal conditions.

Key Characteristics:

• Growth Form: Upright stem plant with branching potential
   
• Color: Green to pink, orange, red, or even deep purple
   
• Leaf Texture: Smooth, soft, and thin
   
• Placement: Midground or background, depending on species
   
• Aquascaping Use: Great for Dutch-style layouts or color contrast zones
   

Rotala species are adaptable but thrive best in clean, soft, nutrient-rich water with added CO₂.

• Temperature: 68°F – 82°F (20°C – 28°C)
   
• pH: 5.5 – 7.5
   
• Hardness: 2 – 12 dGH
   
• KH: 1 – 6 dKH
   
• CO₂: Strongly recommended for vibrant growth and color
   

Many Rotala species will survive in low-tech tanks but display their best form and color with CO₂ and stable parameters.

Lighting plays a critical role in the color and density of Rotala.

• Low Light: Slower growth; tends to stay green
   
• Moderate Light: Healthy growth with some color variation
   
• High Light: Compact, vibrant growth with strong red or pink coloration in certain species
   

Photoperiod: 8–10 hours/day
Recommended: Full-spectrum LED with strong red and blue light to enhance pigmentation

Overexposure to light without sufficient nutrients may cause algae issues, especially on fine-leaved species.

Though varying by species, most Rotala plants appreciate consistent maintenance, trimming, and good water flow.

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich aquasoil is best
   
• Root Feeder: Moderate—absorbs nutrients through both roots and water column
   
• Placement: Background or midground, depending on height and form
   

Rotala responds well to a balanced fertilization schedule.

• Macronutrients: Nitrate (10–20 ppm), phosphate (1–3 ppm), potassium (15–30 ppm)
   
• Micronutrients: Iron and trace elements to support red coloration and health
   
• Routine: EI or ADA-style dosing works well; consistency is key
   

CO₂ injection (20–30 ppm) dramatically enhances compactness, branching, and coloration.

• Trimming: Regular topping encourages lateral shoots and bushy growth
   
• Replanting: Top cuttings can be replanted; base often regrows
   
• Water Flow: Moderate flow helps distribute nutrients and CO₂ evenly
   

Trimming can be done weekly in high-growth tanks to maintain shape and density.

Like most stem plants, Rotala species are easily propagated by stem cuttings.

Propagation Steps:

1. Trim a 4–6 inch segment from the top of a healthy stem.
    
2. Remove lower leaves to expose a bare node.
    
3. Replant directly into the substrate.
    
4. Roots will develop within days under stable CO₂ and light.
    

The lower stem often produces side shoots after cutting, contributing to fuller growth.

• Colorful Accents: Offers a wide palette from green to fiery red
   
• Textural Variety: Thin-leaved species add softness to layouts
   
• High Customization: Can be shaped easily with frequent trimming
   
• Habitat Value: Provides cover for small fish and shrimp
   
• Oxygenation: A fast grower that contributes to oxygen production in planted tanks
   

IssueCauseSolutionPale color or slow growthLow light or nutrient deficiencyIncrease lighting and fertilizationLeggy or sparse stemsNot enough trimming or poor lightTrim regularly and ensure adequate lightingMelting or leaf dropInconsistent parameters or poor CO₂Keep water stable and maintain CO₂ levelsAlgae on leavesExcess light or low flowImprove flow and nutrient balance  

SpeciesColor PotentialEase of CareNotesRotala rotundifoliaGreen to red-orange★★★★☆Hardy and adaptable; ideal for beginnersRotala h'raOrange to red★★★★☆Thin leaves; needs good light for colorRotala macrandraBright red to purple★★☆☆☆Demanding; needs high light and soft waterRotala wallichiiPink to purple★★☆☆☆Fine-leaved; sensitive to low CO₂ or lightRotala indicaGreen to pale red★★★☆☆Similar to R. rotundifolia, slightly stiffer  

Rotala is one of the most versatile and visually rewarding genera of stem plants in freshwater aquascaping. Whether you're adding a touch of red to a lush green tank or crafting a full Dutch-style scape, there's a Rotala species to fit your needs. With the right combination of lighting, CO₂, and regular trimming, Rotala will thrive and become a standout feature in any planted aquarium.