Rotala Rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ – Submersed

Introduction

Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ is a striking aquarium plant known for its vibrant orange to red coloration and delicate, needle-like leaves. It is a popular choice for aquascapers aiming to create colorful and dynamic backgrounds or midground accents in their tanks. Its lush, bushy growth adds a natural and artistic touch to any aquascape.

Origin

Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ originates from Southeast Asia. It is often found growing along the banks of rivers and ponds, where it thrives in both emersed and submerged conditions.

Scientific Name

The scientific name of this plant is Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’.

Lighting Requirements

Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ requires moderate to high lighting to maintain its vibrant reddish hues. It should receive 8 to 12 hours of light per day for optimal color and growth. Higher light intensity brings out the full range of orange to red shades in its leaves.

Care Level

On a scale of 1 to 10, Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ has a care level of 5. It is relatively easy to grow, but its red coloration and compact growth are best maintained with proper lighting, CO2, and fertilization.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)
• pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
• GH Level (General Hardness): 2 to 12 dGH
• KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 8 dKH

Placement

Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ is ideal as a background or midground plant in aquascapes. Its vertical, bushy growth creates a beautiful backdrop, while its bright colors help to draw attention in the middle of the tank. It is often used in Dutch-style aquascapes due to its bold coloration.

Growth Rate

This plant has a fast growth rate, especially in high-light setups with CO2 supplementation. Regular trimming is necessary to maintain a tidy appearance and to encourage lateral growth, forming dense, bushy clusters.

CO2 and Fertilizer

CO2 supplementation is highly recommended to bring out the best in Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra,’ especially for its vibrant red coloration. Regular liquid fertilization, particularly with iron and micronutrients, helps promote strong growth and deep coloration.

Potential Problems

Common issues with Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ include:

• Leggy Growth: In low light, the plant may become tall and sparse, losing its bushy form. Ensure sufficient lighting and CO2 for compact growth.
• Faded Colors: Without enough light or nutrients, the plant may lose its reddish color and turn green.

Compatible Fishes

Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ pairs well with peaceful fish species that won’t disturb its delicate leaves, including:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Gouramis
• Shrimp (e.g., Amano Shrimp, Cherry Shrimp)
• Otocinclus Catfish

Other Suitable Plants

For a balanced aquascape, pair Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ with:

• Rotala wallichii for contrasting leaf shapes.
• Ludwigia repens for additional red highlights.
• Java Fern or Cryptocoryne species for green contrast.
• Micranthemum Monte Carlo for a dense foreground carpet.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ thrives in tropical water conditions, with a stable temperature range between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C).

What Fish Can Eat It?

Most fish do not consume Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra,’ making it a safe choice for tanks with plant-nibbling species.

A Fun Fact

Rotala rotundifolia ‘H’ra’ is often used to create bold, colorful contrasts in aquascapes due to its ability to shift from green to deep orange and red under the right conditions. Its vibrant hues and delicate appearance make it a favorite for those looking to add color without overwhelming the overall composition of the tank.