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Rotala Rotundifolia Colorata
Rotala rotundifolia Colorata
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Myrtales›Lythraceae
Rotala Rotundifolia Colorata is a vibrant stem plant prized for its striking red and pink coloration, especially under high light conditions. Its small, rounded leaves grow densely along the stem, creating an attractive bushy appearance. This variety is moderately easy to cultivate and responds well to CO2 supplementation and nutrient-rich substrates.
Where it's from
Native to Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, China Southeast, East Himalaya, Hainan and 10 more
Recorded as introduced in Alabama, Brazil Southeast, Florida and Queensland
At a glance
- CO₂
- recommended
- Growth
- Fast
- Placement
- background
- 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 eaters that do not uproot or damage stem plants
Small, non-destructive; adds visual contrast and helps control algae
Peaceful schooling fish that do not disturb planted substrates
Gentle algae eaters that graze without harming plant tissue
Peaceful and non-destructive; adds color and movement to the aquarium
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Common diseases 4Melt on Transition, Iron Deficiency, Algae on Leaves, Nutrient Deficiency
Melt on Transition
Leaves become translucent, mushy, and fall off when plant is first introduced or water parameters change drastically
Acclimate slowly over 1-2 weeks; maintain stable water parameters (pH, temperature, hardness); ensure adequate lighting and CO2
Iron Deficiency
Yellowing of new leaves while veins remain green; stunted growth; loss of red coloration
Dose liquid iron fertilizer (chelated form) 2-3 times weekly; increase macronutrient fertilization; ensure adequate lighting for photosynthesis
Algae on Leaves
Green or brown algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced light penetration; plant appears dull
Increase water circulation; reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours; manually remove algae; add algae-eating fauna (Amano shrimp, Otocinclus); reduce excess nutrients
Nutrient Deficiency
Pale or yellowing leaves; weak growth; reduced red coloration despite high light
Dose comprehensive fertilizer containing macronutrients (NPK) and micronutrients (iron, boron, manganese); perform 25-30% weekly water changes; ensure CO2 supplementation
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. Native range: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP) (CC BY 4.0).
At a glance
- CO₂
- recommended
- Growth
- Fast
- Placement
- background
- 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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