Updated: July 22, 2025 - By: - Categories: Planted aquarium

When it comes to crafting a lush, layered aquascape, few plant genera offer the charm and versatility of Rotala. Known for their delicate stems, vibrant coloration, and graceful growth patterns, Rotala species can turn a simple aquarium into a living watercolor. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle green forest or a fiery crimson curtain, these 10 Rotala varieties will give your tank the depth and dynamism it deserves. Let’s dive into the world of these aquatic wonders and find the perfect background stars for your underwater masterpiece.

1. Rotala rotundifolia

Rotala rotundifoliaRotala rotundifolia #ad

Overview: Rotala rotundifolia is a versatile and vibrant aquatic plant, beloved for its lush, bushy growth and ability to add dynamic texture to aquascapes. Native to Southeast Asia, its delicate, rounded leaves shift from green to pinkish-red under high light, making it a favorite for creating colorful focal points.

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2. Rotala rotundifolia ‘Green’

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Overview: A vibrant green variant of Rotala rotundifolia, this plant retains its emerald hue even under high light, offering a fresh, calming presence in aquascapes. Its compact leaves and dense growth make it a go-to for lush, verdant displays.

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3. Rotala rotundifolia ‘Red’

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Overview: Rotala rotundifolia ‘Red’ is a stunning cultivar prized for its vivid red to orange foliage under optimal conditions. Its slender leaves and intense coloration make it a showstopper in any aquascape, perfect for adding dramatic flair.

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4. Rotala macrandra – Giant Red Rotala

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Overview: Known as the “Giant Red Rotala,” Rotala macrandra is a breathtaking plant with large, wavy leaves that display deep red to magenta tones under ideal conditions. Its demanding care needs are rewarded with unparalleled beauty, making it a centerpiece for advanced aquarists.

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5. Rotala macrandra ‘Green’ – Giant Green Rotala

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Overview: Rotala macrandra ‘Green’, often called Giant Green Rotala, is a striking variant of the classic Rotala macrandra. Unlike its red counterpart, this cultivar boasts lush, olive-green leaves that remain vibrant green even under intense lighting. Its large, oval leaves and robust growth make it a standout choice for aquarists seeking a bold, verdant presence in their tanks.

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6. Rotala wallichii

Rotala wallichiiRotala wallichii #ad

Overview: Rotala wallichii, also known as Whorly Rotala, is a delicate, feathery plant with needle-like leaves that range from green to vibrant red or pink under optimal conditions. Native to tropical Asia, its airy appearance and vivid coloration make it a favorite for creating soft, elegant backdrops in aquascapes.

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7. Rotala sp. ‘Nanjenshan’

rotala-nanjenshan

Overview: Rotala sp. ‘Nanjenshan’, also known as Rotala ‘Taiwan’ or Green Wallichii, is a unique species native to Taiwan, often considered a natural hybrid of Rotala rotundifolia and Rotala wallichii. Its fine, needle-like leaves remain bright green with slight reddish-pink tips under high light, offering a delicate yet hardy addition to aquascapes.

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8. Rotala indica

Rotala indicaRotala indica #ad

Overview: Rotala indica, often mistaken for Rotala rotundifolia due to similar leaf shapes, is a versatile and hardy aquatic plant from Asia. Its small, rounded leaves grow in tight, alternating patterns, turning from green to pinkish-red under high light. This plant’s adaptability and lush growth make it a staple for aquarists looking to add vibrant color and structure.

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9. Rotala ramosior

Rotala Ramosior

Overview: Rotala ramosior, commonly known as Florida Rotala, is a North American native with slender, needle-like leaves and a delicate, branching structure. Its green to pinkish-red foliage (under high light) offers a soft, airy aesthetic, making it perfect for aquarists seeking a natural, wild look in their tanks.

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10. Rotala sp. ‘H’ra’

Rotala-sp.-HraRotala-sp.-Hra #ad

Overview: Rotala sp. ‘H’ra’, a stunning cultivar from Vietnam, is prized for its compact, vibrant growth and intense orange to reddish-pink foliage under optimal conditions. Its small, rounded leaves and bushy habit make it a showstopper, perfect for aquarists aiming to create a bold, colorful display.

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With years of hands-on experience and a deep love for aquatic life, we’re passionate fish keepers dedicated to helping others thrive in the hobby. Our mission is to make fishkeeping accessible, enjoyable, and successful for everyone—from curious beginners to seasoned aquarists. By sharing practical tips, honest advice, and hard-earned lessons, we hope to inspire more people to discover the joy of building and caring for a thriving underwater world.

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2 comments

  1. When I see pictures of rotala rotundifolia on the Internet, I always see photos like these. However, the ones I have are showing much more rounded leaves; do they need time to grow/mature?

    Thanks,
    Eric

    • Hi Eric,
      R. rotundifolia is capable of producing different leaf shapes, sizes and colors depending on environmental factors such as light, nutrients, temperature etc. Round leaves means the plant has been grown emersed and you will see new narrow leaves soon after submersed.