Ottelia acuminata

Ottelia acuminata is native to China and parts of Southeast Asia, where it grows in lakes, ponds, and slow rivers. Its submerged leaves are elongated and lance-shaped — more pointed at the tip than other Ottelia species — with a striking reddish midrib running their full length that contrasts beautifully with the pale green translucent blade. It requires similar conditions to other demanding Ottelia: bright light, CO2 injection, and consistent fertilisation in soft to moderately hard water. Its distinctive leaf shape and the colourful midrib make it a highly distinctive collector's plant for experienced aquarists who want something more unusual than standard Vallisneria or Sagittaria backgrounds.

Light: High (60–100 PAR); reddish midrib colouration intensifies under bright illumination. CO2: Required; consistent injection is necessary for healthy, sustained growth. Fertilisation: Root tabs every 2 months; regular comprehensive liquid fertiliser with emphasis on iron. Placement: Midground to background as specimen; allow 20 cm space around the rosette. Propagation: Seeds from surface-flowering parent plants; offsets occasionally produced at the base.