TCulture Rotala rotundifolia

Info

Rotala rotundifolia is widespread in Southeast Asia and has a high range of variation.The new variety originating from Laos is extremely decorative and very adaptable. The reddish brown stems contrast nicely with the light green to olive green leaves. Under intense lighting, the shoot tips may also turn slightly orange-red. Rotala rotundifolia ‘Laos’ doesn’t just look good in the aquarium, even for wabi kusa is this variety ideal and with a little patience you can even enjoy the beautiful flowers.

Rotala Rotundifolia ‘Laos’ for Easy Colour in SG Tanks

This Laos form of Rotala rotundifolia is one of the most adaptable and beginner-friendly stem plants we carry. Its reddish-brown stems contrast nicely with light green to olive leaves, and under intense lighting the shoot tips take on a warm orange-red flush. We recommend it constantly to Singapore hobbyists building their first colourful background because it forgives the occasional lapse in dosing or light.

Widespread across Southeast Asia, rotundifolia is well used to warm conditions, which makes it a natural fit for our local 27-29C tanks. It grows readily in the soft, slightly acidic tap water common here once dechlorinated, with or without CO2, though injection sharpens both growth and colour. Beyond the aquarium, this variety is also a favourite for wabi-kusa and can even flower when grown emersed in our humid climate.

Trim and replant the tops to keep the stand bushy and the colour concentrated near the surface. See our Rotala rotundifolia guide and trimming guide, and explore more in our background plants range.