• Rotala wallichii (Whorly rotala) - Aqua Essentials
  • Rotala wallichii (Whorly rotala) - Aqua Essentials
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Rotala wallichii

Ultra-fine pink whorled leaves on a spectacular advanced Rotala wallichii stem plant

£7.99
£7.99
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Quick Facts

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Common name: Dwarf Rotala

Origin: Asia

Position in Aquarium: Mid/background

Grows up to (cm): 40 cm

Pot Size: 5 cm

Growth rate: Medium pace
Description

Rotala wallichii is one of the most visually delicate and striking of all aquarium stem plants, producing whorls of very fine, hair-like pink to magenta leaves around thin upright stems. Under ideal bright light and CO2 conditions the plant develops an almost luminous warm pink colour and an exceptionally fine, soft texture that is unlike virtually any other aquarium plant.

It is a demanding species requiring bright light and CO2 injection along with precise nutrient management for the compact, intensely coloured growth it is capable of. Without CO2 or under insufficient light the fine leaves deteriorate quickly and growth becomes sparse and green. Soft, slightly acidic water gives the best results, and iron-rich fertilisation is essential for sustaining the warm pink pigmentation.

Supplied as an established potted plant, Rotala wallichii suits aquariums from 50 litres upward managed by experienced hobbyists with bright lighting and CO2. When healthy, it is one of the most spectacular background plants in the planted aquarium hobby and rewards the effort involved in maintaining ideal conditions.
Plant Sizes

You’ll receive a healthy, rooted plant in a pot, similar to those shown. Each one is hand-checked before dispatch.
Shipping

Same-day dispatch on orders placed before 4pm, Monday to Friday. Tracked 24 Service from £4.99, DPD Express from £6.99.
Rotala wallichii (Whorly rotala) - Aqua Essentials

Product FAQs

Helpful details before you buy.

Does Rotala wallichii need CO2?

Yes. CO2 injection is essential. Without it the fine leaves deteriorate rapidly and the plant cannot maintain the compact pink growth that makes it so attractive.

What light level does it need?

Bright light is required. Under lower light the characteristic fine pink whorls do not develop properly and the plant grows poorly.

Is it easy to care for?

No. Rotala wallichii is one of the more demanding aquarium plants and is best suited to experienced hobbyists with bright lighting, CO2, and good nutrient control.

What water conditions does it prefer?

Soft, slightly acidic water gives the best results. Hard or alkaline water inhibits nutrient uptake and causes the fine leaves to deteriorate.

How do I get the most vivid pink colour?

Bright light, CO2, soft water, and iron-rich liquid fertiliser together produce the most vivid pink to magenta colouration on the whorled leaves.