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Rotala H’ra is a vibrant, fast-growing aquarium plant with delicate pinkish-red stems. Perfect for aquascaping, it thrives in CO₂-rich tanks with bright light.

Rotala H’ra – A Stunning Red Accent for Your Aquarium

Rotala H’ra is a popular aquatic plant among aquascaping enthusiasts due to its vibrant coloration and delicate, flowing growth. Native to Vietnam, this stem plant is often confused with Rotala Rotundifolia but is distinguishable by its thinner, more arching stems and its tendency to develop rich pink-to-red hues under optimal conditions. When cultivated properly, Rotala H’ra forms lush, dense bushes, making it an excellent choice for midground and background placement in planted tanks.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Displays a striking red-to-orange hue under strong lighting and CO₂ supplementation
• Rapid growth rate, ideal for creating dense aquascapes
• Works well in Dutch-style and nature aquariums
• Can be trimmed to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth
• Easy to propagate through stem cuttings

Ideal Water Conditions for Rotala H’ra:

To bring out its best colors and ensure healthy growth, it's crucial to maintain stable water parameters:

• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72°F – 82°F)
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Hardness (dGH): 2 – 12 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)
• Lighting: Moderate to high (strong lighting enhances red coloration)
• CO₂ Requirement: Recommended (high CO₂ levels intensify color and growth)
• Nutrient Needs: Requires regular fertilization, especially iron-rich fertilizers to maintain vibrant hues

💡 Tip: If the plant remains green instead of turning red, increase light intensity and CO₂ levels while ensuring a steady nutrient supply.

Compatible Tank Mates:

Rotala H’ra is compatible with a wide range of freshwater fish and invertebrates. However, it is delicate and can be easily damaged by rough or herbivorous species. Ideal tank mates include:

✅ Best Tank Mates:

• Small schooling fish (e.g., tetras, rasboras, danios)
• Dwarf gouramis and bettas (non-destructive species)
• Shrimp (Amano, cherry, or crystal red shrimp)
• Snails (Nerite, mystery, or ramshorn snails)

🚫 Avoid These Tank Mates:

• Goldfish (they will uproot or eat the plant)
• Large cichlids (especially aggressive or plant-eating species)
• Silver dollars and some plecos (prone to nibbling on soft plants)

Feeding and Care Requirements:

• Substrate: While Rotala H’ra can grow in various substrates, nutrient-rich soil substrates (like ADA Amazonia or Fluval Stratum) will enhance growth and coloration.
• Trimming: Regular trimming encourages bushy growth and prevents excessive shading of lower stems. Trim the tops and replant them for propagation.
• Fertilization: Requires a well-balanced liquid fertilizer containing nitrates, phosphates, potassium, and iron. Root tabs can be added for extra nutrition.
• Water Flow: Prefers gentle to moderate water flow to keep its delicate leaves clean from debris.
• Algae Control: Susceptible to algae if nutrients and CO₂ levels are imbalanced. Ensure stable water conditions and consider adding algae-eating shrimp or snails.

Propagation:

Rotala H’ra propagates easily by cutting the stems and replanting them in the substrate. Over time, it will form a dense cluster, enhancing the beauty of any aquascape.

Conclusion:

Rotala H’ra is a fantastic addition to planted aquariums, offering an elegant, colorful touch that enhances any aquascape. With the right conditions—high light, CO₂ injection, and nutrient-rich water—it rewards aquarists with lush, vibrant growth. Whether you're creating a Dutch-style tank or a nature-inspired layout, this plant’s versatility and striking hues make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquascapers.

🌿 Upgrade your aquascape today with the stunning Rotala H’ra!