Rotala Florida

Rotala sp. 'Florida'

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Myrtales›Lythraceae

📍 Captive-bred (hybrid)

Versatile rotala with green to pink stems depending on light intensity. Fast-growing and relatively undemanding for a coloured stem plant.

Tank Mates

Amano Shrimp

Beneficial algae grazers that won't damage plant tissue; help maintain tank cleanliness

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Small, peaceful shrimp that won't uproot or damage stems; add visual interest

excellent

Otocinclus

Algae-eating fish that stay small and won't disturb rooted plants

good

Neon Tetra

Peaceful schooling fish that provide contrast against plant foliage without damaging stems

excellent

Dwarf Hairgrass

Complementary foreground plant that creates layered aquascaping with Rotala Florida in background

excellent

Anubias Nana

Hardy companion plant with different growth form; both thrive under medium-high lighting

excellent

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, loss of pink hues despite adequate lighting

Treatment

Increase fertilizer dosing with all-in-one liquid fertilizers; add macronutrients (NPK) and micronutrients (iron, trace elements); consider root tabs for substrate supplementation

Algae Overgrowth

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating stems and leaves, reduced light penetration, plant appears smothered

Treatment

Reduce lighting duration to 8-10 hours daily; increase water changes; add algae-eating shrimp or fish; improve water circulation; maintain proper nutrient balance to avoid excess nutrients

Melting

Symptoms

Leaves become translucent, stems soften and decay, plant appears to dissolve

Treatment

Ensure stable water parameters (pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 23-28°C); increase CO2 if available; improve lighting gradually; perform 25-30% water changes weekly; remove severely affected stems

Iron Deficiency Chlorosis

Symptoms

New leaves emerge pale or yellowish while veins remain green, affecting growth

Treatment

Dose liquid fertilizer containing chelated iron 1-2 times weekly; ensure pH is not too high (above 7.5) which reduces iron availability; test and adjust nutrient levels