AI-generated image
Rotala
BeginnerRotala spp.
Essential background stem plant genus. Many species including R. rotundifolia and R. indica. Beautiful red coloration and dense bushes achievable through trimming.
About
Rotala is a large genus of aquatic plants in the family Lythraceae, distributed widely across tropical and subtropical wetlands of Asia, Africa, and the Americas. In the aquarium hobby numerous species are cultivated — most notably R. rotundifolia and R. indica — as essential background stem plants prized for their capacity to color red to orange under intense illumination and CO2 enrichment. Leaves are small and grow opposite along slender stems. The more light and iron-rich liquid fertilizer provided, the deeper and more vivid the red coloration becomes. Dense, bushy backgrounds are achieved through regular trimming and replanting of cut stems. Many species are forgiving for beginners, though requirements vary considerably between species, making species selection important.
Basic Info
Origin
Tropical to subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas
Size
10-40cm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
CO2 recommended + liquid fert (iron is key for red color)
Growing Tips
Lighting
Medium to high light. More light = deeper red coloration
CO2
Recommended. Grows without but slower and less colorful
Trimming
Replant cuttings for denser growth. Stick trimmed stems back in
Notes
Iron deficiency causes pale leaves. Supplement with iron-rich liquid fert
Rotala FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Rotala?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Rotala?
The ideal temperature for Rotala is 22〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Rotala get?
The mature size of Rotala is 10-40cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Rotala?
Rotala: watering & fertilizer — CO2 recommended + liquid fert (iron is key for red color). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Rotala?
The price of Rotala varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
How to Cultivate Rotala and Bring Out Beautiful Red Color | Lighting, CO2, and Trimming Techniques to Achieve Vibrant Red
This guide explains the Rotala genus, popular in aquatic plant layouts, covering light intensity, CO2, and fertilizer management to bring out red coloration, as well as trimming techniques for maintaining beautiful, dense growth.
Beginner-Friendly Aquatic Plants Without CO2 Supplementation | Cultivation Conditions and Tank Layout Strategies
You can create a beautiful aquarium without expensive CO2 equipment. This guide explains practical methods for selecting CO2-free aquatic plants that beginners can successfully grow, from cultivation conditions to tank layout strategies.
Rare Rhizophytic Aquatic Plants Beyond Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Willow Moss | The Appeal of Distinctive Varieties Such as Bolbitis
Beyond the standard rhizophytic aquatic plants Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Willow Moss, there are distinctive rhizophytic species such as Bolbitis. This article explores their appeal, cultivation tips, and how to incorporate them into your layout.
Tissue Culture Aquatic Plants vs. Standard Aquatic Plants: Pesticide Risk Comparison | Safe Aquatic Plant Selection for Shrimp Tanks
Comprehensive comparison of pesticide residue risks between tissue culture aquatic plants (TC plants) and standard aquatic plants. We explain why tissue culture plants are safe, the time required for pesticide removal in standard plants, and how to choose aquatic plants by category (foreground, midground, background) considering pesticide risks from a shrimp tank perspective.