Rotala Macrandra

Unlike most rotalas, Rotala macrandra produces broad, oval, delicate-textured leaves. Under the right conditions the leaves turn from deep red to pink, sometimes to orangey tones, and the plant becomes the most eye-catching point in the aquarium. Narrower-leaved forms such as 'Narrow Leaf' are also sold.

The leaf texture is very delicate; it breaks easily, and contact with hands, nets and large fish damages the leaves. It is one of the difficult red plants: strong light, constant CO₂, soft water and regular iron supplementation are essential. When any of these is lacking, the leaves become smaller, curl or melt.

• Stems are planted singly or in groups of 2–3, 3–4 cm apart.
• Hold the stem at its lower part with tweezers; do not press on the leaves.
• Choose a spot that gets direct light and where the current is not strong.
• A nutrient-rich active substrate and root tabs support growth.

• Light: High; in weak light the leaves stay greenish-brown.
• CO₂: Required.
• Water: Soft (GH 1–8), pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 22–28 °C.
• Fertilizer: Iron, potassium and micronutrients are dosed regularly. Nitrate running out completely also makes the leaves smaller; balanced fertilization is needed.
• Trimming: Cut carefully from the top; broken leaf pieces should be removed from the water.

It is propagated by top cuttings; the cut stem also produces side shoots. Because the cuttings are quickly damaged out of water, they should be replanted without delay during trimming.

• Curling, stunted new leaves: Hard water, fluctuating CO₂ or nutrient deficiency.
• Melting and leaf drop: Seen after new planting or with sudden changes in water parameters.
• Fading color: Light is insufficient or iron is lacking.
• Torn leaves: Strong current, frequent handling or leaf-nibbling fish.