Rotala Rotundifolia Setup Checklist

1. Select the Ideal Aquarium Environment

• Tank Size: Suitable for nano tanks (10 gallons+) and larger community setups.
• Positioning: Best used as a background or midground plant, depending on pruning style.
• Companions: Compatible with peaceful fish, shrimp, and most aquascaping plant species.

2. Prepare the Substrate

• Nutrient-rich substrate: Use aquasoil or enriched substrates to support strong root growth.
• Layer with iron-rich media if possible—Rotala thrives with ready access to micronutrients.
• Avoid coarse gravel which may hinder delicate root systems.

3. Optimize Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F) for optimal growth.
• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5).
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is preferred.
• Regular water changes help keep water parameters stable and support vibrant plant coloration.

4. Provide Proper Lighting

• Lighting intensity: Medium to high; 0.5-1 watt/L (or 30-50 PAR at substrate).
• Duration: 8-10 hours per day to avoid algae growth while meeting plant needs.
• Stronger light encourages red and orange hues—adjust as desired for your aquascaping style.

5. Supplement with CO₂ and Fertilizers

• CO₂ injection: Not strictly required, but high-light setups will benefit greatly (15-30 mg/L recommended).
• Fertilizers: Dose liquid fertilizer for macro and micronutrients, especially iron for vibrant coloration.
• Dose according to plant biomass and growth rate—slower in low-tech setups, more frequent in high-tech aquascapes.

6. Correct Planting Technique

1. Trim stems to 4-8 cm lengths before planting.
2. Remove any damaged or emersed leaves near the base.
3. Plant individual stems 2-3 cm apart for optimal light and water flow.
4. Use aquascaping tweezers for precision.
5. Anchor gently to avoid uprooting by fish or water flow.

7. Routine Maintenance

• Trimming: Regularly trim tops and replant cuttings to maintain bushy, dense growth.
• Water changes: 30-50% weekly to minimize algae and replenish nutrients.
• Monitor health: Watch for yellowing, melting leaves, or signs of nutrient deficiency and adjust dosing accordingly.
• Remove any decaying stems or leaves promptly to keep your aquascape pristine.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

• Pale or yellow leaves: Indicates nutrient deficiency (usually iron or nitrogen) – increase fertilizer dosing.
• Leggy growth: Caused by inadequate light or crowded stems. Increase light, thin out stems, or trim more frequently.
• Algae on leaves: Check light duration, CO₂ injection, and reduce excess nutrients in the water column.
• For more tips on algae management, visit our article on preventing algae in planted tanks.

Rotala Rotundifolia Aquascaping Inspiration

Rotala Rotundifolia is a staple in many classic aquascaping layouts, including the Dutch style for its bushy impact and the Nature Aquarium style for its vibrant color contrast. Combined with driftwood, stones, and carpeting plants, wavy swathes of Rotala can provide motion and depth in your aquascape design.

• Read our Rotala species comparison for more plant choices
• Check our aquascape layout ideas to get inspired

Conclusion: Grow Rotala Rotundifolia with Confidence

Rotala Rotundifolia is adaptable, visually striking, and beginner-friendly with the right setup. Follow this checklist to enjoy its fast growth, easy propagation, and stunning color transformations. Want more aquascaping tips and plant care guides? Explore our tutorials on beginner aquascaping plants or share your own Rotala setups in our community forum.