Rotala rotundifolia Blood Red - Tropica

Rotala rotundifolia ‘Blood Red’ is a highly decorative aquarium plant valued for its intense red f...

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This guide is for aquarium enthusiasts looking to add vibrant color to their aquascapes. Rotala rotundifolia ‘Blood Red’ offers intense red foliage for striking contrast, growing upright with good branching. While it tolerates moderate conditions, achieving its deepest red hues requires strong lighting and CO₂ supplementation. It's a popular choice for adding dramatic color to the mid to background of an aquarium with relatively easy care.

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Model Part NumberRotala rotundifolia Blood Red
BrandTropica

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FAQs

What lighting intensity is recommended for Rotala rotundifolia ‘Blood Red’?

High intensity lighting is recommended to achieve the deepest red coloration. Moderate lighting will result in less intense red hues.

Does this plant require CO₂ injection?

While it can grow in moderate conditions, CO₂ injection is highly recommended for optimal growth and achieving the most vibrant red color.

How should I plant Rotala rotundifolia ‘Blood Red’?

Plant individual stems or small bunches directly into the substrate. Avoid planting too densely initially to allow for growth and light penetration.

What is the best placement for this plant in an aquarium?

It is best suited for the mid to background of the aquarium due to its upright growth habit and potential height.

How often should I trim this plant?

Regular trimming is advised to encourage branching and maintain a bushy appearance. Trim the tops of the stems and replant them if desired.

Will this plant grow in low-tech aquariums (no CO₂)?

Yes, it can grow in low-tech setups, but its red coloration will be less intense, often appearing more reddish-green or pinkish.

Troubleshooting

Leaves are not turning red, appearing green or pinkish.

Increase lighting intensity and ensure adequate CO₂ supplementation. Check iron and trace element levels in your water column.

Plant appears leggy and sparse.

Trim the tops of the stems to encourage branching. Ensure sufficient lighting and nutrients.

Melting or decaying stems.

Check water parameters for stability, especially temperature and nutrient levels. Ensure the plant is properly planted in the substrate and not just floating.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Delivers a strong, intense red color for aquascapes.
  • Good branching characteristics for a fuller look.
  • Adds significant visual structure and contrast.
  • Relatively easy to care for compared to some other red plants.
  • Suitable for both beginners and experienced aquascapers.

Cons

  • Deepest red coloration requires high light and CO₂.
  • Can appear more pinkish-red in lower light conditions.
  • Requires regular trimming to maintain desired shape and density.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup: Plant individual stems or small groups into the substrate. Ensure adequate spacing for growth and light penetration. For best results, place in the mid to background of your aquarium.

Lighting: Strong lighting is crucial for developing the deepest red coloration. Moderate lighting will result in redder-green or pinkish tones.

CO₂ and Nutrients: Supplementation with CO₂ and a good liquid fertilizer containing iron and trace elements will promote healthy growth and vibrant color. Ensure a stable supply of nutrients.

Water Parameters: Thrives in standard aquarium water conditions. Consistent water changes help maintain water quality.

Maintenance: Trim regularly to encourage branching and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Stems can be replanted after trimming.