Rotala sp. 'Bonsai'

Rotala sp. 'Bonsai' is a hobbyist trade name applied to an extremely compact-growing Rotala form, likely of Asian origin, that maintains unusually short internodes and dense lateral branching without frequent trimming. The tiny leaves are green to pinkish and the overall plant rarely exceeds 10–15 cm in height, making it ideal for nano aquariums and the midground of larger tanks.

Despite its slow growth, it still requires high-tech conditions — CO2 injection and bright light are necessary to prevent etiolation. Under optimal conditions it develops a remarkably bushy, bonsai-like silhouette that is unlike any standard Rotala form.

Propagation is slow by stem-plant standards; allow lateral shoots to reach 3–5 cm before separating. Patience is rewarded with a uniquely architectural plant that requires minimal maintenance once established.

Light: High (60–100 PAR); critical for compact growth and preventing stretch. CO2: Required at 20–30 mg/L; without CO2 internodes elongate unattractively. Fertilisation: Light weekly dose of micros and macros; overfeeding can cause algae in nano setups. Placement: Midground or nano foreground; single specimens or small groups of 3–5. Propagation: Allow lateral shoots to reach 3–5 cm then separate and replant.