Aquarium Plant Rotala Blood Red for High-Tech Tanks, Deep Crimson Stem Growth for Midground or Background Planting

Rotala Blood Red brings upright crimson stem growth to a high-tech planted aquarium, creating a strong color contrast among green plants. Place it in the midground or background where its vertical habit can add height and definition to the aquascape.

This advanced-care Rotala needs high-intensity lighting and pressurized CO2, while complete fertilization and supplemental iron support its deepest red coloration. Moderate-to-fast growth responds well to regular trimming, making the plant a practical choice for aquarists who enjoy shaping dense stem-plant groups.

Key Features

• Its upright growth pattern creates a clear vertical accent, giving midground and background layouts more structure.
• Moderate-to-fast growth supports the formation of dense hedges through routine pruning and replanting.
• High-intensity light, pressurized CO2, complete fertilization, and supplemental iron encourage the plant's deepest crimson coloration.
• Planting individual stems slightly apart lets light reach lower growth, reducing the risk of bare, leggy sections.
• Trimming the stem tops when they reach the surface promotes branching and keeps upper growth from shading lower leaves.
• Stable water parameters reduce the chance of leaf melt or stem rot while the plant settles into its aquarium routine.

Specifications

• Scientific name: Rotala rotundifolia 'Blood Red'
• Common names: Rotala Blood Red; Rotala Rotundifolia Blood Red
• Family: Lythraceae
• Plant type: Stem plant
• Care difficulty: Advanced / high-tech
• Light requirement: High
• CO2 requirement: Pressurized CO2 required for deep red color
• Placement: Midground or background
• Height: 4–8 inches or more
• Growth rate: Moderate to fast
• Water pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water temperature: 72–84°F
• Propagation: Herbaceous stem cuttings
• Origin: Southeastern China
• Supplied form: Emersed or submerged, depending on nursery availability and seasonality

Handle the fragile leaves gently during preparation, remove the wrapping around the base, and anchor each bare lower stem 1–2 inches into soil. Choose a lead bunch or the 3-bunches-plus-1-free option to suit your planting plan.