Overview
Rotala rotundifolia 'Red' is a highly popular freshwater stem plant originating from Southeast Asia, widely used in aquascaping for its delicate structure and striking color variation. This plant naturally shifts between green, orange, pink, and deep red hues depending on lighting and nutrient levels, making it an excellent contrast plant in planted aquariums.
It performs well in both low-tech and high-tech setups and is commonly used as a midground to background plant in group plantings for maximum visual impact.
Key Features
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Color-shifting foliage based on light and nutrients
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Fast-growing freshwater stem plant
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Dense, bushy growth when trimmed
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Beginner-friendly and highly adaptable
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Grows well in both low-tech and high-tech tanks
Why Choose Rotala rotundifolia 'Red'?
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One of the most popular red aquarium plants
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Easy to grow and maintain
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Responds beautifully to strong lighting
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Excellent for mass planting and aquascaping
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Great value with Buy 2 Get 1 Free offer
Benefits
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Adds vibrant red and orange contrast
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Creates depth and visual flow in aquascapes
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Provides shelter for shrimp and small fish
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Helps absorb excess nutrients
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Ideal for colorful planted layouts
Product Specifications
• Scientific/Common name: Rotala rotundifolia 'Red' / Rotala Red
• Plant or product type: Live freshwater stem plant (2-inch pot)
• Growth rate / usage: Moderate to fast growth, decorative and functional
• Lighting / requirements: Low to high light
• Placement / application: Midground to background
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Tank type: Freshwater, planted, community, shrimp
Care Guide / Usage Guide
Lighting
Low to high lighting is suitable. Stronger light enhances red and orange coloration.
Water
Prefers temperatures between 68–82°F (20–28°C) with a pH range of 6.0–7.5.
Substrate
Best planted in nutrient-rich aquarium soil or substrate.
CO₂
Not required, but optional CO₂ and iron-rich fertilizers significantly improve growth speed and color intensity.
Maintenance
Trim regularly to encourage side shoots and prevent lower leaves from losing access to light.
Planting / Application Instructions
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Remove plant from the pot.
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Gently remove foam or wrapping from roots.
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Separate stems carefully.
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Plant individual stems about ½ inch apart.
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Trim and replant tops as needed for bushier growth.
Perfect For
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Beginner and experienced aquarists
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Low-tech and high-tech planted tanks
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Midground and background aquascaping
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Red color contrast
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Fast-growing layouts
Important Notes
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Plant Selection Notice: These will be a plant of our choice, selected based on current availability, size, and overall health to ensure the best quality upon arrival.
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Leaf color depends on lighting, nutrients, and tank stability.
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Emersed plants will change form once submerged.
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Leaves are delicate and should be handled gently.
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Live plants naturally vary in size, shape, and coloration.
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Some melting after shipping is normal during acclimation.
Disclaimer
Images are for reference only. Actual plant size, shape, and color may vary due to natural growth conditions and lighting. Live arrival and health guarantees are subject to store policies. Adjustment periods after shipping are normal for live plants.
