🌸 All About Rotala wallichii – Growow TC Plant

Rotala wallichii is a delicate and visually striking stem plant known for its fine, feathery leaves and beautiful pink to reddish hues under ideal conditions. A favorite among aquascaping enthusiasts, it adds soft texture and vibrant color to midground or background areas in planted tanks. While a bit more demanding than other Rotala species, the payoff is stunning when grown well.

🔍 Quick Overview

• Scientific Name: Rotala wallichii

• Common Name: Wallichii Rotala

• Family: Lythraceae

• Origin: Southeast Asia

• Type: Stem plant

🌱 Plant Characteristics

• Height: 20–40+ cm

• Leaf Shape: Needle-like, very fine and soft

• Color: Greenish lower stems; pink to deep red tops with proper light and nutrients

• Growth Pattern: Upright with dense, soft whorls

• Growth Rate: Medium to fast (in ideal conditions)

💧 Tank Requirements

• Lighting: High light required for vibrant coloration and dense growth

• CO₂: Essential – ensures proper growth and maintains color

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich aquasoil ideal; column dosing also important

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 5.5–6.8

  • Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

  • Hardness: Soft water preferred

• Tank Position: Midground or background

🧪 Growow Tissue Culture (TC) Benefits

• Free from algae, snails, and contaminants

• Compact, healthy stems that adapt quickly to tank conditions

• Sterile, ideal for starting or upgrading planted aquascapes

• Easy to split and plant in bunches

🌟 Key Features

• Adds soft, flowing texture to contrast with bold-leaved plants

• Turns bright pink to red under intense light and iron dosing

• Perfect for Dutch-style layouts and color layering

• Looks great in groups or rows along the aquascape background

• Often used as a color accent among green foliage

🧠 Tips for Success

• Trim regularly to prevent legginess and promote bushier growth

• Needs consistent CO₂ and iron/micronutrient fertilization

• Plant stems close together in bunches for a full effect

• Avoid shading by taller plants

• Soft, acidic water enhances leaf structure and color