Rotala macrandra
Alternate Names:
Rotala macrandra brings standout color to a planted tank while staying practical to grow, making it a fun choice for aquascapes that need a bright accent. CO₂ really helps it shine and grow steadily.
Care At-A-Glance
Difficulty: Difficult without CO2
Type: Red stem plant
Size: 3 - 20cm+ Native Range: Subcontinent (southern India)
Position and Usage: Background or midground "show piece". Quite conspicuous
CO2 Requirements: Highly recommended - required
Growth Rate: Fast (with CO2 and good lighting)
Lighting: 4/5 - 5/5 Temperature: 20-28
Water Conditions: pH 5.5 to 6.5 - soft to medium-hard
Propagation/Reproduction: Cuttings can be re-planted in the substrate - frequent trimming promotes shorter, bushier growth. Special requirements: Sensitive to sudden drops in temperature. Likes good water circulation, access to micronutrients. Prefers acidic, nutrient rich substrate. Emersed growth: Suitable and easily aclimates to emersed growth. Looks almost identical to Rotala rotundifolia when grown emersed except for the red coloration
Detailed Information
Overview
Rotala macrandra Sometimes considered the "queen of aquarium plants" - Rotala macrandra is a beautiful plant from southern India that is absolutely jaw droppingly gorgeous when grown successfully. It's rich, red coloration is delightful and it's unique foliage is stunning. Though it is a demanding plant that requires high light, CO2 and fast moving water, anyone who's ever grown R.
macrandra do its fullest potential would probably say it's worth it!
References and Further Reading