Rotala Wallichii
Rotala wallichii
Also known as Whorly Rotala, Pinnatifida
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Myrtales›Lythraceae
📍 Southeast Asia & South Asia
Rotala wallichii produces delicate, needle-like whorled leaves that turn vivid pink-red under high light with CO2 and iron supplementation. It is one of the most demanding stem plants but creates unmatched visual impact in high-tech aquascapes.
Community Photos
1 photoPhotos are added when members log a tank with this species and upload a photo in their tank journal. Add your own tank to contribute.
by @Ralph
Sign in to vote.
Tanks keeping this 🌿
Growing in 2 tanksCommunity tanks featuring Rotala Wallichii.
Compatible Livestock
Gentle foragers that won't damage delicate foliage and help control algae
Excellent algae control without harming plant structure; thrive in similar water parameters
Small, peaceful fish that won't uproot or damage fine-leaved stems
Algae-eating fish that respects plant integrity and prefers acidic, soft water
Companion stem plant with similar care requirements and complementary aesthetics
Foreground plant that pairs well; both require high light and CO2 for optimal growth
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency (Nitrogen/Iron)
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration despite high light
Increase liquid fertilizer dosing; verify macronutrient and micronutrient levels; consider all-in-one fertilizer if using separate dosing
Algae Overgrowth (Green/Black Spot)
Green film or black spots on leaves; reduced photosynthesis and plant vigor
Reduce photoperiod to 8 hours; increase water changes; add algae-eating shrimp or fish; maintain CO2 and nutrient balance
Melting (Tissue Decay)
Rapid leaf deterioration, mushy stems, plant collapse after planting
Ensure stable water parameters (pH 5.0-6.5, temperature 22-28°C); maintain high CO2 levels; perform 30% water change; trim affected portions
CO2 Deficiency
Slow growth, pale color, leaf curling, poor stem development
Install or increase CO2 injection to 20-30 ppm; verify diffuser function; check regulator pressure; allow 2-3 weeks for recovery
Tips from the community 💡
0 tipsReal experiences, care advice, and keeper notes. Finn learns from these too.
Sign in to share your experience.
No community tips yet — be the first to share your knowledge!
Quick Facts
- co2
- Required
- diet
- Water column feeder
- light
- Very high
- tank size
- 20 gallons minimum
- growth rate
- Medium
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.0–6.5
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 0–6 dGH
- temperature
- 72–82°F (22–28°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.