Rotala macrandra Giant (Giant Red Rotala)

Rotala macrandra Giant (also known as Giant Red Rotala) is a striking, large-leafed aquatic stem plant known for its vibrant pink to deep red colors. It is a highly demanding, high-tech aquarium plant that serves as a dramatic backdrop in Dutch and nature-style aquascapes.

Key Characteristics & Growth Habits

Visual Appearance: This variant features much larger, wavy, ovate leaves compared to standard Rotala macrandra. Lower light yields greenish-pink hues, while intense lighting brings out a bold blood-red.

Placement & Depth: It grows vertically and can quickly exceed 30 cm in height. It is best planted in the background. Space individual stems slightly apart so light can reach the bottom leaves.High-Tech

Necessity: To thrive, it requires stable water parameters, high lighting, pressurized CO2, and iron-rich liquid or root fertilization.

Trimming and Propagation

Pruning: Cut the top 5–10 cm of the longest stems using sharp aquascaping scissors. This triggers branching and forms a bushier canopy.

Replanting: Strip the lower leaves from the cut segment and push the bare stem into a nutrient-rich substrate using tweezers.