ADA Tissue Culture Rotala Rotundifolia 'Blood Red' is a stunning and striking variety of the commonly known Rotala Rotundifolia. This cultivar is highly prized in the aquascaping community for its deep, vibrant red coloration, especially when grown under optimal conditions. It provides a vivid splash of color and can serve as an eye-catching focal point in aquascapes.
Key Characteristics:
Origin: Asia (particularly Southeast Asia).
Growth Type: Stem plant, often used for its vibrant coloration.
Size: Grows to a height of 15-40 cm, with lateral growth of 3-6 cm.
Lighting: Requires high lighting for optimal color intensity and compact growth.
CO2: CO2 supplementation is essential to achieve the deep red coloration and to promote healthy growth.
Color: Deep red to crimson under high light, transitioning from a greenish-pink in low light to a vibrant, rich red under optimal conditions.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F).
pH: 6.0-7.5.
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.
Planting and Maintenance:
Planting:
Carefully remove the tissue culture from the container and rinse off the gel.
Plant individual stems a few centimeters apart to allow for proper growth and light penetration.
Trimming:
Regular trimming helps maintain its compact, bushy appearance and encourages lateral branching.
Replant the trimmed tops for propagation and to maintain a dense bush.
Nutrients:
Requires a nutrient-rich substrate or regular liquid fertilization.
Iron supplementation and trace elements are critical for maintaining its vibrant red hues.
Usage in Aquascaping:
Best suited for midground or background placement, depending on the layout and desired effect.
Excellent for Dutch aquascapes or aquariums with vibrant color contrasts.
Creates a dramatic effect when combined with green plants, providing visual depth and focal points in the aquascape.
Benefits:
Adds intense color to the aquascape, creating a striking contrast with green plants.
Helps improve the overall aesthetic of the tank with its vibrant and bold hues.
Assists in water quality by absorbing excess nutrients from the substrate.
Care Tip:
To achieve the full potential of the red coloration, ensure high lighting, consistent CO2 supplementation, and regular nutrient dosing, especially with micronutrients like iron. Rotala Rotundifolia 'Blood Red' thrives in stable, well-maintained conditions, and regular trimming will help it maintain a bushy, compact shape while ensuring the intense red color is maintained.