Rotala rotundifolia
Rotala rotundifolia, 'Dwarf Indian Toothcup'
This beautiful plant is known for forming dense, lush clusters in the midground or background and and will turn a bright red in aquariums with high lighting. Can be grown with or without CO2.
QUICK NOTES:
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Type: Stem plant with pink and green leaves
Size: Can reach up to 50cm, generally around 20 - 30cm
Position and Usage: Mid-background plant
Growth Rate: Moderate
Lighting: 3/5 - 5/5. Higher light will result in an even more vibrant pink leaf colour
Water Conditions: 20 - 28°C. Lower temperatures are tolerated but slow growth. Softer water and low to neutral pH preferred.
CO2: Recommended for optimal growth, health, and vibrant colouration, but not required
Propagation: Make stem cuttings of 10cm and replant. Frequent trimming will promote denser, bushier growth.Special requirements: Appreciates good lighting and iron supplementation.
Emersed Growth: Can be grown emersed. Emsersed plants are short and dense, rarely exceeding 10cm.
Description
Rotala rotundifolia is an extremely popular, versatile and variable species. In a high-tech setup with plenty of light and C02, the upper half of this plant turns a beautiful pink hue. Without CO2 and/or with less light, it will remain green but still grow well to fill out the back of your tank. Rotala grows quickly and lushly: a single cup will quickly establish a colony, making an ideal shelter for shy or skittish fish. Rotala grows very densely and should be regularly pruned; left unchecked, it may become spindly and thin. A nutrient-rich substrate will encourage the development of horizontal, crawling stems, higher density and more branching.
