Rotala rotundifolia Red

Rotala rotundifolia Red is the standard red-colour selection of this Southeast Asian species, one of the most widely cultivated stem plants in the hobby. In high light with CO2 and iron supplementation the small, rounded leaves shift from pale pink to intense red. It grows quickly and responds well to regular trimming, branching densely to form full, impressive columns. Its versatility across Dutch, Nature, and Iwagumi-style layouts has made it a perennial bestseller.

Light: Medium to high (40–80 PAR); higher light intensifies red pigmentation. CO2: Beneficial at 20–30 mg/L; not strictly required but improves colour. Fertiliser: Dose iron and micronutrients weekly; ensure adequate NO3 and PO4. Planting: Group 5–9 stems, spaced 2 cm apart in background; trim tops every 1–2 weeks. Growth: Fast; reaches 20–40 cm; trim regularly to maintain bushy shape.