Rotala Nanjenshan (Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan') Care Guide

A fine-leaved stem plant that develops striking orange-red coloration under high light with CO2. The needle-like leaves create a soft, wispy texture perfect for Dutch-style aquascapes.

Overview

Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' is an aquatic plant in the family Lythraceae. A fine-leaved stem plant that develops striking orange-red coloration under high light with CO2. The needle-like leaves create a soft, wispy texture perfect for Dutch-style aquascapes.

Taxonomy

Family: Lythraceae
Genus: Rotala
Scientific name: Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'
Other names: Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan'

Habitat

A horticultural form first circulated from Nanjenshan in southern Taiwan and most often referred to Rotala wallichii or its close relatives. Stems carry whorls of needle-like leaves that develop pink to red tones under high light and CO2.

Growth requirements

Light: high (≥80 PAR at substrate)
CO2: pressurised CO2 recommended
Temperature: 22-28 °C
pH: 5.5-7
GH: 2-10 °dGH
Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil or fertilised gravel
Nutrient demand: high
Growth rate: medium
Difficulty: intermediate

Placement

Recommended placement: midground
Maximum height: 30 cm
Trim every: 14 days

Propagation

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