Rotala mexicana "Araguaia"

Rotala mexicana 'Araguaia' is a fine-leaved form originally collected from the Araguaia river system in Brazil. Its extremely narrow, almost hair-like leaves are arranged in dense whorls along slender stems, creating a uniquely soft and feathery texture that distinguishes it from all other Rotala species. Under adequate light and CO2 the leaves develop spectacular orange to warm pink colouration, particularly at the growing tips. It requires more precise water chemistry than most Rotala but rewards the effort with an unmatched delicate beauty.

Light: High; 70–100 PAR for orange-pink pigmentation. CO2: Required; 25–35 ppm; colour and growth degrade without sufficient CO2. Water: pH 5.5–7.0, soft water (GH 0–8) preferred. Planting: Plant dense groups of 7–10 stems; trim regularly to prevent lower leaf loss. Growth: Moderate; replant trimmed tops; maintain consistent fertilisation with iron.