Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'
IntermediateRotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'
A delicate stem plant with needle-fine leaves, only 0.5–1 mm wide, in whorls of three to six. It derives from plants found at a single site near Nanjenshan, Taiwan, and has not been identified to species. With enough light and iron its tips turn reddish.
About
Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' is a stem plant of the genus Rotala (Lythraceae). It derives from plants found at only one site near Nanjenshan in Taiwan and entered the trade through a German aquatic plant company in 1993. Because its fruits, which are key to identifying Rotala species, are unknown, it has not been assigned to a described species; one view is that it is a natural hybrid of R. rotundifolia and R. wallichii. The name is often misspelled ('Nanjean', 'Najean'). It was once imported as 'Mayaca sellowiana', and the two are often thought to be the same, but true Mayaca is an entirely different plant in another family. The leaves identify it: under water it bears very narrow linear leaves 1.5–2 cm long and 0.5–1 mm wide, three to six per node, with notched tips. Stems are green, leaves light green to reddish. Emersed plants have two to four elliptic leaves per node and may bear tiny pale purple flowers. It thrives in soft, CO2-rich water; unobstructed light and ample iron give the tips a rich red tint, while erratic fertilisation causes stunting and blackening. Growing tips sometimes arch downward, and it suits small tanks too. It is a staple Rotala at specialist shops in Japan.
Size of the Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'
The Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' grows to Leaves 1.5–2 cm long, 0.5–1 mm wide.
Temperature & humidity for the Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'
The ideal temperature for the Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' is 22〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Taiwan (near Nanjenshan)
Lifespan
Perennial; maintained by replanting cuttings
Size
Leaves 1.5–2 cm long, 0.5–1 mm wide
Temperature
22〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Needs CO2 and steady fertilisation including iron
Growing Tips
Lighting
Needs medium to strong light; unobstructed light reddens the tips.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Thrives in CO2-rich water. Keep iron up and fertilise steadily; erratic feeding causes stunting and blackening.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–28°C in soft water at pH 4.5–7.5.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant in groups in the substrate; suits the midground and small tanks.
Trimming & Propagation
Cutting back produces many side shoots; replant tops to propagate.
Cautions
It has been sold as 'Mayaca sellowiana', which is a different plant; watch for variant spellings too. Never release plants into the wild.
Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'?
The ideal temperature for Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' is 22〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' get?
The mature size of Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' is Leaves 1.5–2 cm long, 0.5–1 mm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'?
Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan': watering & fertilizer — Needs CO2 and steady fertilisation including iron. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'?
The price of Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act or Species Conservation Act. No Rotala variety is registered in Japan's plant variety protection database (as of September 2026). Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act) / MAFF plant variety registration database
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
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