Rotala Ceylon
Common Name: Ceylon Rotala
Photos show submerged vs. emersed growth.
This fast-growing and hardy species of Rotala hails from Sri Lanka (former Ceylon,) where it grows in shallow water with plenty of light. It is a stem plant, with 6 to 8 stems each featuring many narrow, light-green leaves, which can develop a pinkish hue under especially strong light. Its growth shape gives it a full and busy, but “light” appearance. This makes it good as a “neutral” species for the background, where it can accentuate red plants.
It can be trimmed or propagated frequently, and will consistently grow back to its full size without needing to be replanted, so long as it gets enough light and CO2 injection. Overall, it is a simple and neutral species of Rotala that can provide a firm foundation for many aquarium setups.
Notes:
- You may receive this plant in its emersed or submerged form depending on availability and seasonality. Click to learn more about Emersed vs. Submerged-Grown Aquatic Plants for Aquascaping.
- Rotala has fragile leaves! Be sure to handle with care.
- Final coloration is ultimately dependent upon the conditions this plant is kept in. This is a live plant meaning size, shape and color may vary.
- Do not make drastic changes to the aquarium. Unstable parameters will result in melt and rotting of the aquarium plant.
- Please be sure to remove this plant from its wrap. Remove the foam surrounding the roots and plant into a quality substrate. For instructions on how to properly prep “bunched“ aquarium plants, click here.
- CO2 injection and quality aquarium soil will yield better growth.
- Please research appropriately to ensure your plant thrives.
Genus: Rotala
Family Name: Lythraceae
Origin: Sri Lanka
Height: 4-12 inches
pH: 4.5 - 8.0
Care: Easy
Light: Medium to High
Co2: Medium
Propagation: Cuttings
Growth Rate: Fast