Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red (Care Guide)
Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red is a beautiful, slender-leaved plant that brings vibrant red tones to aquascapes. Known for its long, skinny leaves, this plant offers a delicate and bushy appearance, making it ideal for aquariums seeking an elegant aesthetic. With varieties like Rotala rotundifolia and Rotala rotundifolia Orange Juice, Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red is part of a diverse genus with many color and growth variations. Here’s a complete guide to help you grow and care for Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red.
Overview
- Scientific Name: Rotala sp. Narrow Leaf Red
- Common Names: Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red, Rotala Red, Narrow Leaf Rotala, Long Skinny Leaf Plant
- Family: Lythraceae
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Growth Type: Stem plant
- Size: Grows up to 10-15 inches
Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons, though it can thrive in larger aquariums where it has room to bush out.
- Placement: Ideal for mid-ground or background placement, as the plant grows tall with a bushy appearance.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH Level: 5.5-7.5
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2-10 dGH)
Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red thrives in slightly acidic to neutral water and adapts well to a variety of water parameters when stable. Regular water changes improve growth and coloration.
Lighting Requirements
- Light Level: Moderate to high
- Duration: 8-10 hours per day
High lighting enhances the plant’s red color, which is one of the main attractions of Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red. With moderate lighting, the plant may develop greenish tones and slower growth, while higher light brings out its vibrant red hue, much like Rotala rotundifolia Orange Juice and Ammania Bonsai Red.
Substrate and Fertilization
- Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate is ideal for root development, though it can also grow in sand or gravel with additional root fertilization.
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Fertilization:
- Macronutrients: Regular dosing of NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) is essential.
- Micronutrients: Iron is crucial for maintaining the plant’s red coloration.
- CO₂ Injection: While not mandatory, CO₂ injection is recommended to enhance color, growth, and to keep plants compact in high-light setups.
Routine nutrient dosing is important to avoid deficiencies, especially in tanks with multiple plant species.
Planting and Propagation
- Planting: Plant individual stems with some spacing to allow for bushy growth. Long skinny green leaf plants like this benefit from open spaces to allow each stem to receive adequate light.
- Propagation: Easily propagated through stem cuttings. Trim healthy stems and replant them in the substrate where they will quickly develop roots.
Growth Rate and Maintenance
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, depending on lighting, CO₂, and nutrient availability.
- Trimming: Regular trimming is essential to maintain bushiness and prevent the plant from overshadowing others. Trimming encourages lateral shoots and a denser appearance.
Removing old or unhealthy leaves helps maintain a neat look and reduces the risk of algae buildup.
Potential Issues
- Melting: Like other aquarium Rotala plants, it may experience melting when first introduced. Remove melted leaves to encourage new growth.
- Nutrient Deficiency: Pale or yellow leaves indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly iron.
- Algae Growth: High lighting without balanced nutrients or CO₂ can cause algae issues. Balancing light, CO₂, and nutrient dosing helps prevent this.
Compatibility and Tank Mates
- Ideal for: Peaceful community tanks with small fish and shrimp.
- Avoid: Herbivorous fish that may damage the delicate leaves.
Benefits in the Aquarium
- Aesthetic Appeal: Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red adds striking color with its narrow, red leaves, creating contrast in green aquascapes.
- Oxygen Production: Helps oxygenate water and contributes to a balanced ecosystem.
- Natural Shelter: Provides hiding spots for small fish and shrimp, enhancing the tank’s environment.
Different Types of Rotala
Other popular Rotala varieties include:
- Rotala rotundifolia: Known for its adaptability and bright colors.
- Rotala macrandra: Known for vibrant red hues, requiring high lighting.
- Rotala indica: A hardy, green Rotala variety.
- Rotala Red: General term for various red-tinged Rotala plants.
Each variety has unique characteristics and can bring different colors and textures to your aquascape.
Conclusion
Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red is a versatile and eye-catching plant that can transform the look of any aquarium. With proper lighting, nutrients, and CO₂, this plant will thrive and display its signature red color. For a beautiful, vibrant addition to your aquascape, consider Rotala Narrow Leaf Sp. Red, available at enchantedgrow.com.