Rotala sp. 'Hra'

Rotala sp. 'Hra' (sometimes written 'H'ra') is a collector-selected form renowned for producing extraordinarily deep, saturated red-orange pigmentation. Under high light and consistent CO2 injection the entire plant — stems and leaves alike — takes on an almost opaque blood-red to burnt-orange hue that few other aquatic plants can match.

Its care requirements are at the demanding end of the spectrum. It needs strong light (70+ PAR), stable CO2, soft and slightly acidic water, and frequent fertilisation. Iron deficiency rapidly bleaches the colour, turning stems pale pink or even greenish. Water temperatures above 28°C can also wash out the red pigmentation.

Popular in competitive Dutch aquascaping as a high-impact colour accent, Rotala sp. 'Hra' is best used sparingly as a focal column rather than a mass planting, allowing its extreme coloration to stand out.

Light: High (70–120 PAR); the deepest red requires maximum intensity. CO2: Required at 25–35 mg/L; stable injection is non-negotiable for colour retention. Fertilisation: Maintain iron at 0.1–0.3 mg/L; comprehensive micro dose every other day. Placement: Background accent column; group 5–9 stems tightly for maximum colour impact. Propagation: Trim tops at 10–15 cm; replant immediately; side shoots develop within 10 days.