HRA Rotala rotundifolia is a variety discovered in a Vietnamese province. This plant is especially popular in the planted aquarium hobby due to its remarkably deep pink narrow pointed leaves when grown in submerged settings. The growth habit under light conditions is nearly identical to R. rotundifolia ‘Green,’ as it can grow downwards after reaching a certain height. Increasing the amount of NITROGEN in the water column may cause the leaves to turn pink. However, if NITRATE-containing fertiliser capsules are added to the substrate, good fertilisation with CO2 addition can cause the plant to produce pink-colored leaves continuously. This plant can survive in low-CO2 environments, but it thrives in high-CO2 environments.
In the marketplace, Rotala rotundifolia ‘Hi Red’ is also sold as a variety of R. rotundifolia. This is unmistakably R. rotundifolia ‘H’ra.
Overview: Rotala rotundifolia’ Hi Red’ is an intriguing Rotala species with red-colored leaves. It is from Southeast Asia and belongs to the Lythraceae family. It’s a lovely stem plant that works well as a mid-ground or background plant. Because this is a fast growing aquarium plant, regular training and pruning is required. Rotala species were introduced in 1960 under the incorrect name Rotala Indica; however, different species were later discovered and given names based on their characteristics. Because of its red leaves, this variety is known as ‘Hi Red.’
The Latin meaning of Rotala rotundifolia is “plant with round leaves,” but this peculiar feature is only found in varieties that grow in marsh land. The leaves of Rotala rotundifolia’ Hi Red’ are long, narrow, and thin, with a green, brown, and reddish tinge. The stem can grow to be 15 to 30 cm long and 2 to 3 cm wide. The side shoots emerge from the main stem, giving the plant a bushy and compact shape. Because it develops a bushy structure, light does not reach the lower leaves. As a result, regular trimming is required.
Hard/soft plant: It is a tough plant that can withstand minor changes in water parameters for several hours. However, in order to achieve red colour, a high light intensity is required.
Water temperature should be kept between 10 and 30 degrees Celsius to allow the plant to thrive.
Lightening conditions: Rotala rotundifolia’ Hi Red’ is known for its bright red leaves. Good lighting ensures that the brown and green coloured leaves develop a reddish tinge and look beautiful.
Ideal pH range: A pH range of 5 to 7 is ideal for Rotala rotundifolia’ Hi Red’ growth.
Propagation: Because Rotala rotundifolia’ Hi Red’ is a stem plant, it can be easily propagated by stem cutting.
Rotala rotundifolia’ Hi Red’ stands out from the other aquarium plants due to its reddish coloured leaves and quickly becomes the centre of attention. It can help to create a lovely aquascape in the aquarium.
