Rotalas come in various stunning colors, making them perfect for mid-ground or background positions in aquariums, adding vibrant hues to the underwater landscape. They can be relatively easy to maintain with proper care, although their color and leaf condition depend on tank parameters and whether they're grown submerged or emersed. Handling Rotala plants with care is crucial due to their delicate leaves. Overall, Rotalas are highly rewarding plants when cared for properly, so let's dive into the different types available.

 

 Rotala Vietnam h’ra

 

Family Name: Lythraceae

Rotala Vietnam h’ra is a newcomer in the aquarium scene, offering a delicate yet striking addition to back or mid-ground setups. Originating from Vietnam, it belongs to the Rotalarotundifolia species, you can expect two different kinds of styles to this plant as it differs depening on if it’s submerged or emersed. When it’s full submerged underwater it grows pointed leaves in vibrantred ororange hues but when emersed the leaves are more rounded usually green. Best suited for moderate to high light and low nitrate levels, this stem plant thrives with the addition of CO2 when submerged. Propagation is straightforward like with most stem plants—simply cut a side shoot or axial root and replant it in thesubstrate. However, handle with care as Rotala has delicate leaves prone to damage. Keep in mind that its final coloration depends on tank conditions, and sudden changes may lead to plant deterioration.

Rotala Indica

 

Family Name: Loosestrife

Rotala indica also referred to as Indian toothcup, belongs to the loosestrife family and is native to Southeast Asia. Primarily recognized as a favored addition to aquariums, it's also notorious for its presence as a weed in rice fields. It’s a commonly found aquatic stem plant that excels as a background addition to your tank. Its growth is lush and tall under the right conditions, and with high light and properfertilization, it exhibits a delightful light pinkhue beneath its leaves, occasionally transitioning to a deeper red shade. Regular trimming promotes a dense, bushy appearance. Remember, the plant's color, size, and shape are influenced by tank conditions, and its delicate leaves require careful handling. Optimal growth can be achieved with high-quality planted tanksubstrate and CO2 injection, but abrupt changes in tank parameters may result in plant melting.

Rotala Rotundifolia Orange Juice

Family Name: Lythraceae

Rotala Rotundifolia Orange Juice, originating from Italy from plant lover Massimo Lannella. He was huge plant lover and selected specific stems of Rotala Rotundifolia ‘Colorata’ to create the orange hue. True to its name, this aquatic stem plant boasts vibrantorange hues, adding a refreshing twist to traditional greenery in your tank. Whether grown submerged or emersed, it offers versatility in leaf shape, producing rounder leaves in its emersed form and longer, narrower ones when submerged. To enhance its intense coloration, dosing with high iron and Plant Food fertilizer is recommended. Ideal for background placement, this plant creates captivating contrast amidst greenery. Plant densely by spacing individual stems about half an inch apart for optimal growth. Regular pruning is advised to maintain thickness and prevent lower leaves from succumbing to inadequate lighting. Propagation is straightforward, requiring simple stem cutting and replacement.