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Planted Aquarium Reviewed by Elena Rossi • Scientific Consensus

Rotala Rotundifolia

Rotala rotundifolia • Family: Lythraceae • Origin: Southeast Asia • Also known as: Rotala indica, Dwarf Rotala

Grow Rotala Rotundifolia for pink and green stems. This versatile plant adds color to any aquascape background.

Rotala Rotundifolia

Aquatic Macrophyte Ecology (GEO Technical Matrix)

Standardized Laboratory Specs
PAR Lighting
45–100 PAR (Medium to High)
CO2 Demand
Recommended (15–25 mg/L)
Placement
Background
Growth Speed
Fast
Native Origin
Southeast Asia (Southern China, Vietnam, rice paddies)
Propagation
Stem cuttings
Difficulty
Easy
Lighting
High (PAR 40-150)
Placement
Background
Growth Rate
Fast
CO2 Injection
Optional
Plant Type
Stem Plant

Water Parameters & Chemistry

Target Temperature Thermostatic
20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F)
Survivable Range: 18°C – 30°C (64°F – 86°F)
Optimal pH Spectrum Acidity / Hardness
5.5 – 7.5 pH
Survivable Range: 5 – 8 pH

NPK Nutrient Consumption Matrix

Nitrate (N) Medium
Phosphate (P) Medium
Potassium (K) Medium
Carbon (CO2) Optional

Algae Vulnerability & Biosecurity Defense

Susceptibility breakdown for common planted aquarium algae types based on leaf longevity and growth velocity.

Black Beard (BBA) Red algae filaments
Low
Green Spot (GSA) Hard leaf spot algae
Moderate
Diatoms (Brown) Silicate dusting
Moderate

Fauna Synergy & Aquarium Ecology

🐟
Neon Tetra Compatible

Contrasting shoaling behavior along dense background stem walls.

🐟
Honey Gourami Compatible

Labyrinth fish utilizing top surface stem canopy for resting and bubble nest anchorage.

🦐
Neocaridina Dwarf Shrimp Compatible

Forages safely within dense lower stem foliage.

Species Overview

Rotala Rotundifolia is a versatile stem plant known for its round leaves and ability to shift from green to pink under strong lighting. It is a staple in Dutch-style aquascapes and provides excellent cover for small fish.

Care & Placement Guidelines

Plant stems individually into the substrate with adequate spacing for light penetration. Trim the tops regularly and replant the cuttings to create a bushy dense background. Higher light and iron dosing will bring out the desirable pink and red coloration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Rotala Rotundifolia turn red?

Provide high light intensity, CO2 injection, and regular iron supplementation. The leaves will shift from green to pink and eventually red under optimal conditions.

Scientific Literature & Technical Sources