Ottelia lancifolia

Ottelia lancifolia is a rare and visually striking species found in parts of Africa and Asia, producing lance-shaped submerged leaves on long petioles from a central rosette. Each leaf is semi-translucent pale to mid-green with a prominent reddish to purple midrib that creates an elegant bicolour effect, particularly noticeable when backlit by aquarium lighting. It is among the more demanding Ottelia species, requiring bright light, consistent CO2 injection, and soft to moderately hard water for healthy, sustained growth. In good conditions it produces successive fresh leaves from the central growing point, forming an ever-expanding rosette. A magnificent specimen plant for the experienced high-tech aquarist.

Light: High (60–100 PAR); midrib colouration is most vivid under intense illumination. CO2: Required; consistent injection is essential for adequate growth and leaf quality. Fertilisation: Root tabs every 2 months; regular comprehensive liquid fertiliser — iron especially important. Placement: Midground as a solo specimen plant; allow 20–25 cm radius for full rosette development. Propagation: Seeds from surface flowers; vegetative offsets produced rarely — treat each plant carefully.