Rotala Indica (Rotala indica) Care Guide

A delicate stem plant with small oval leaves that develop a pinkish hue under moderate to high lighting.

Overview

Rotala indica is an aquatic plant in the family Lythraceae. A delicate stem plant with small oval leaves that develop a pinkish hue under moderate to high lighting. Easier to grow than many Rotala species, making it a good entry point into colorful stem plants.

Taxonomy

Family: Lythraceae
Genus: Rotala
Scientific name: Rotala indica
Other names: Indian Toothcup

Habitat

A stem plant in the family Lythraceae native to South and Southeast Asia, where it grows in rice paddies and seasonal wetlands. Submerged leaves are small, ovate-elliptic and develop pink tones under intense light.

Growth requirements

Light: medium (≈50-80 PAR at substrate)
CO2: optional (CO2 improves growth and coloration)
Temperature: 22-28 °C
pH: 6-7.5
GH: 2-12 °dGH
Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil or fertilised gravel
Nutrient demand: low
Growth rate: medium
Difficulty: beginner

Placement

Recommended placement: midground
Maximum height: 25 cm
Trim every: 10 days

Propagation

In cultivation the plant is propagated by stem cuttings (replant the upper portion after trimming).