Rotala macrandra 'Variegated' Care Guide
Rotala macrandra 'Variegated' is a demanding red stem plant of the Lythraceae family that needs strong light, CO2 and rich fertilization to keep its colour.
Overview
Rotala macrandra 'Variegated' is a cultivar of the demanding red stem plant Rotala macrandra, in the family Lythraceae. The base species originates from Asia. The cultivar is generally considered demanding and is rated as difficult; on the variegated form the lighter leaf veins stand out against darker tissue in pink to red tones.
Taxonomy
- Family: Lythraceae
- Genus: Rotala
- Scientific name: Rotala macrandra 'Variegated'
- Type: variegated cultivar of R. macrandra
Habitat
Rotala macrandra originates from Asia. In cultivation it is a submersed stem plant that develops its red coloration only under suitable conditions. As a cultivar, the 'Variegated' form is maintained in aquaria rather than from a defined wild population.
Tank requirements
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (optimum 24-28 °C)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 1-8 °dGH
- Lighting: high (strong)
- CO2: required
- Maximum height: about 30 cm
- Placement: midground
Care and growth
This is a demanding stem plant. It requires rather strong lighting, CO2 supplementation, soft to medium-hard water and a balanced supply of macro- and micronutrients. Rotala macrandra is sensitive to CO2 fluctuations, which can cause tip stunting. Water movement benefits growth, and the plant grows quickly and abundantly when conditions are met.
Placement and propagation
It is suited to midground and background positions and works as a colourful accent, including in Dutch-style layouts. It is best to place stems individually with some distance between them as a group to prevent loss of lower leaves. Propagation is by cuttings replanted into the substrate.