Rotala sp. 'Bangladesh'

Rotala sp. 'Bangladesh' is an informally named collection form from Bangladeshi waterways that produces elongated, lance-shaped leaves with a warm pinkish-red flush under high light. The stems arc gracefully as they grow, giving planted groups a softer, more flowing appearance than the upright habit typical of other Rotalas.

This species is rarely encountered in the hobby and is primarily found through specialist collectors and rare plant sales. Its care requirements are broadly similar to other advanced Rotalas — soft, slightly acidic water, CO2 injection, and high light — but it tends to be somewhat more tolerant of moderate water hardness than R. macrandra.

Used effectively in large background groups, the arching stems create a distinctive layered texture. Trim the tallest stems first to maintain an even canopy.

Light: High (60–100 PAR); pink-red tones develop only under strong illumination. CO2: Required at 20–30 mg/L; interruptions cause leaf drop in established plants. Fertilisation: Iron-rich fertiliser weekly alongside balanced NPK; EI dosing works well. Placement: Background; plant in groups of 5–9, allow natural arching growth. Propagation: Trim tops at 12–15 cm and replant; roots develop within 5–7 days.