Rotala Red (Rotala indica)

Rotala Red is a beautiful stem plant prized for its vibrant pink to deep red coloration and graceful, bushy growth. It is easier to care for than many other red aquarium plants, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to add color as well as experienced aquascapers.

🌿 Lighting

• Medium to High Light
• Medium lighting supports healthy growth.
• High lighting brings out richer red and pink tones while encouraging compact, dense growth.

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
• Prefers stable water conditions for the best color and growth.

🌱 Planting

• Plant individual stems 1–2 inches apart to allow light and water circulation.
• Insert the lower portion of each stem gently into a nutrient-rich substrate.
• Leave enough space between stems so lower leaves receive adequate light.

🌿 Fertilization

• Regular liquid fertilizers promote vibrant color and healthy growth.
• Root tabs provide additional nutrients for stronger root development.
• CO₂ is optional but highly beneficial for faster growth, denser foliage, and deeper red coloration.
• Iron supplementation can help intensify red hues.

✂️ Growth & Maintenance

• Fast-growing under ideal conditions.
• Trim regularly to encourage bushier growth.
• Replant healthy stem cuttings to create a fuller, more vibrant plant group.
• Routine pruning helps maintain a compact, attractive appearance.

🐠 Aquarium Benefits

• Adds stunning red contrast to green aquatic plants.
• Absorbs excess nutrients, helping improve overall water quality.
• Provides shelter for shrimp, fry, and small fish.
• Perfect for creating colorful backgrounds or midground accents in planted aquariums.

📦 Upon Arrival

• Rinse gently with clean, dechlorinated water before planting.
• Minor leaf loss or melting during the adjustment period is normal, especially if transitioning from emersed to submerged growth.
• With proper lighting and stable conditions, new submerged growth should appear within a few weeks.

Difficulty: ⭐⭐ Easy to Moderate
Growth Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Fast
Placement: Midground to Background
CO₂ Required: No (Optional for enhanced color and growth)

With bright lighting, regular nutrients, and occasional trimming, Rotala Red develops into a lush, colorful display that adds vibrant red tones and natural beauty to any freshwater planted aquarium.