🌿 All About Rotala sp. 'Bonsai' – Growow TC Plant

Rotala sp. 'Bonsai' is a compact, slow-growing aquatic stem plant that resembles a miniature tree — hence the name “Bonsai.” It’s an excellent choice for aquascapers looking to create structured, low-profile layouts or achieve a “bushy” effect in the midground to foreground. It’s not a true carpeting plant, but it forms neat, tree-like patches that add depth and formality to aquascapes.

🔍 Quick Overview

• Scientific Name: Rotala sp. 'Bonsai'

• Common Name: Rotala Bonsai

• Family: Lythraceae

• Origin: Cultivar (not found in the wild)

• Type: Stem plant

🌱 Plant Characteristics

• Height: 5–15 cm

• Growth Habit: Vertical stems with tight, round green leaves

• Leaf Shape: Small and rounded; opposite leaf arrangement

• Color: Bright green under standard light; slightly bronze under high light

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

• Structure: Compact and dense — ideal for shaping

💧 Tank Requirements

• Lighting: Medium to high (higher light keeps form tighter)

• CO₂: Recommended for compact growth and healthy leaves

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich aquasoil or fine gravel with root tabs

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

  • Hardness: Soft to medium

• Tank Position: Foreground to midground

🧪 Growow Tissue Culture (TC) Benefits

• Pest- and algae-free, sterile start for new aquascapes

• Healthy root and leaf development from the start

• Easily split into small portions for uniform planting

• Grows more predictably than emersed-grown pots

🌟 Key Features

• Unique, bonsai-like appearance – mini “trees” in your tank

• Ideal for nano aquariums or intricate layouts

• Great for structured or minimalist aquascapes

• Can be shaped by regular trimming for a low bush effect

• Maintains form even without frequent trimming

🧠 Care & Aquascaping Tips

• Plant stems in small dense bunches for best impact

• Trim tops to encourage side-shoots and rounder shape

• Avoid too much shading – it prefers direct light

• Pair with carpet plants like Monte Carlo or Hydrocotyle tripartita for contrast

• Fertilize regularly for lush growth and to prevent yellowing