Rotala Rotundifolia 'Hi Red'

Overview: Rotala rotundifolia' Hi Red' is an interesting species of Rotala that exhibits red colored leaves. It belongs to the Lythraceae family and originated from Southeast Asia. It is a beautiful stem plant that can be grown as a mid-ground or background plant. Being a fast growing aquarium plant, a regular need for training and pruning becomes essential. Rotala species was introduced in 1960 under the erroneous name Rotala Indica; however, later, different species were discovered and given a name according to their features. This variety is given the name 'Hi Red' due to red colored leaves. 

Appearance: The Latin meaning of Rotala rotundifolia is 'plant with the round leaves' however, this peculiar feature is limited to varieties that grow in marsh land. The shape of the leaves in Rotala rotundifolia' Hi Red' is long, narrow, and thin and has a green, brown, and reddish tinge. The stem grows as long as 15 to 30 cm with 2 to 3 cm width. The side shoots emerge out of the main stem creating a bushy and compact shape of the plant. Since it attains a bushy structure, light didn't reach the lower leaves. Therefore, regular trimming is a must. 

Hard/soft plant: It is a hardy plant that can survive well in minor changes in the water parameters for some hours. However, to attain red color, it is essential to provide high light intensity. 

Ideal water temperature: The temperature should remain between 10 and 30 degrees Celsius to help the plant thrive. 

Lightening conditions: Rotala rotundifolia' Hi Red' is known for its red colored leaves that came with high light intensity. Good light ensures that leaves attain a reddish tinge over the brown and green colored leaves and look beautiful. 

Ideal pH level: pH between 5 and 7 is suitable for the good growth of Rotala rotundifolia' Hi Red'.

Propagation: Rotala rotundifolia' Hi Red' is a stem plant; therefore, it can be easily propagated through stem cutting. 

Do you know: Rotala rotundifolia' Hi Red' stands out from the rest of the aquarium plants due to reddish colored leaves and instantly becomes the centre of attention. It can create a beautiful aquascape in the aquarium.