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Rotala Bonsai
Rotala sp. Bonsai
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Myrtales›Lythraceae
Rotala Bonsai is a compact, slow-growing stem plant prized for its miniature leaf structure and ability to form dense, tree-like formations with careful pruning. It displays green to reddish foliage depending on lighting and nutrient availability, making it ideal for aquascaping focal points in small to medium tanks.
At a glance
- CO₂
- recommended
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- midground
- Temp
- 72–82°F
- 22–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 36–143 ppm
- 2–8 dGH
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Compatible livestock
See all 6Peaceful algae grazer; will not uproot or damage delicate foliage
Non-destructive; helps control algae on plant surfaces
Small, peaceful schooling fish; minimal disturbance to plant structure
Algae eater that grazes without uprooting; ideal for planted tanks
Peaceful; may nibble soft plant tips occasionally but generally compatible
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Common diseases 4Melt / Transition Shock, Iron Deficiency (Chlorosis), Algae Overgrowth on Leaves, Nutrient Deficiency (Macronutrient)
Melt / Transition Shock
Leaves become translucent, mushy, or fall off rapidly after planting or water parameter changes
Ensure stable water parameters (pH, temperature, hardness); maintain consistent lighting and CO2; perform gradual acclimation; trim affected portions and allow new growth
Iron Deficiency (Chlorosis)
Yellowing of new leaves while veins remain green; stunted growth; pale coloration
Dose liquid iron fertilizer (chelated iron) 1-2x weekly; increase lighting to improve nutrient uptake; ensure adequate macronutrient balance
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green, brown, or black algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced photosynthesis; plant appears dull
Increase water circulation; reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours; add algae-eating fauna (Amano shrimp, Otocinclus); perform manual removal; reduce excess nutrients
Nutrient Deficiency (Macronutrient)
Slow growth; pale or yellowing leaves; weak stem development; poor coloration
Dose all-in-one fertilizer or separate macro/micro fertilizers weekly; ensure adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium; test water and adjust dosing based on plant response
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.
At a glance
- CO₂
- recommended
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- midground
- Temp
- 72–82°F22–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 36–143 ppm2–8 dGH
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
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