Rotala Macrandra

Common Name: Rotala Macrandra

The Rotala Macrandra, commonly known as the Giant Rotala, is a beautiful red plant from Asia.

Rotala is highly demanding, needing high-intensity lighting, no shade, and high Co2 injection. To prevent shading, the individual stems must be planted far enough apart for the lower leaves to get enough light. Once established the plant grows quickly: up to 4” per week, in ideal conditions. To achieve a slight red tint, ensure that this Rotala has plenty of phosphates (1.5 - 2.0 ppm) and not too much nitrate. (10ppm or less.) An incorrect amount of either of these nutrients will lead to stunted growth or discolored leaves.

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.

Family Name: Lythraceae

Origin: India

Height: 4-12”

pH: 6.5-7.5

Care: Difficult

Light: Medium to High

Co2: Required 

Propagation: Cut the stem and replant

Growth rate: Moderate to Fast