Rotala sp Mini Butterfly is a striking back or mid-ground stem plant with red leaves that stand out against the usual green foliage. This plant can be difficult to grow because it requires a lot of light and nutrients. The plant’s bottom leaves will shrivel and fall off if not given enough light. Leaves will grow prostrate and green in their emersed state. The submerged version will grow upright and bright red. Rotala Macrandra grows quickly in the right conditions. It is recommended that Rotala Macrandra be supplemented with iron and micronutrients to achieve the best colour. They will be the most vibrant red when nitrates are low but phosphate and micronutrients are abundant. If the plant does not have enough iron, the leaves may appear pale red or have white markings. CO2 levels of 15-25ppm are ideal for Rotala Macrandra growth. Water that is soft and acidic is preferred. Cut the newest growth from the base of the stem and re-plant into the substrate to propagate. Cut off the leafy, robust top half and replant into the substrate for pruning. Plant individual shoots not too close together to avoid limiting light to the plants.
Rotala rotundifolia is a South East Asian native perennial aquatic plant. The name Rotala rotundifolia is derived from Latin words that mean “the plant with rounded leaves.” The plant belongs to the Lythraceae family, and its taxonomic status is highlighted below:
Plantae is the kingdom.
Tracheophytes is a clade.
Angiosperms are a clade.
Myrtales in order
Lythraceae family
Rotala Genus and Species Rotala rotundifolia (Rotala rotundifolia)
The Lythraceae family includes the genus ‘Rotala.’ It is a genus of fast-growing stem plants and bunchy plants. This genus’ plants are commonly used in aquascaping due to their beauty and distinctive coloration, which ranges from green to red or reddish-pink depending on the species. Rotala rotundifolia has distinct emersed terrestrial and underwater / submerged forms. In emersed forms, the Rotala’s leaves are rounder and thicker, whereas in submerged forms, the leaves are narrower, thinner, and lanceolate.
