Rotala 'H'ra'

Rotala 'H'ra' is a rotala that entered the hobby from Vietnam and is named after the area where it was collected. Its species identity has not been firmly established; most sources regard it as a form of Rotala rotundifolia. Compared with ordinary rotundifolia its leaves are finer and denser and its colors more intense: under strong light the upper half of the stem turns from orange to deep red. It survives in moderate light but stays green-bronze.

• Plant the stems in groups of 5–7, 2 cm apart, 3 cm deep.
• Use it in the midground or background as a color focal point among green plants.
• Choose a nutrient-rich substrate and a position that receives direct light.

• Light: High; the red color only becomes pronounced under strong light.
• CO₂: Not required but beneficial; recommended for color and dense growth.
• Fertilizer: Iron supplementation supports the color; very high nitrate can make the color fade.
• Trimming: Cut from the top; replant the cut tips to make the group denser.