This Rotala is generally an easy plant to care for and is a great addition to many aquariums due to its beautiful tint of pink coloring on the leaves!

Rotala rotundifolia, also sometimes called Rotala indica has small leaves and is a good display for the background or midground of an aquarium. It grows to about 20 inches (50 cm) if cared for correctly and grows at a moderate rate. Leaf color varies from olive-green to pink and there are several different shape variations of the leaves, including oval and oblong, very narrow, or really round.

The Dwarf Rotala should be kept in bright light and at its recommended temperature of 68-82° Fahrenheit to obtain its best coloring and growth rate. However it usually can adapt to lower temperatures and light levels. Propagation of this Rotala is usually fairly easy. Simply planting cuttings from the main plant usually works great. However, make sure the cuttings are least 4 inches long to ensure good growth.

The water conditions should be regularly checked to help the Dwarf Rotala thrive. It needs soft water with a pH between 5 and 7.2. Make sure to perform regular water changes and fertilize regularly with a liquid fertilizer that contains iron because iron is important for healthy growth. Also provide some sort of bottom fertilization.

For more Information on keeping a planted aquarium see:
About Planted Aquariums, Adding Aquatic Plants For a Healthy Aquarium

 

Distribution:

   Dwarf Rotala originate in Southeast Asia.

Water conditions:

   Temperature: 68-82° F (20-28° C)
   pH: 5.0 – 7.2
   dCH: 2-15°

Lighting:


   Light level: Bright – 50 watts per 25 gallons

Propagation:

   The Dwarf Rotala propagates from cuttings that should be at least 4 inches long.

Availability:

   This aquarium plant is readily available.


 Rotala rotundifolia (Image Credit: Ruff tuff cream puff, Wikimedia Commons CC0 Universal)