Rotala macrandra is an outstandingly beautiful red stem plant, which unfortunately can be quite tricky to cultivate successfully. Soft water, a nutrient rich substrate, micronutrient dosing, intense lighting, and CO2 injection are all required for this Indian plant to do well. R. macrandra is best grown in the midground and planted in groups; although individual shoots should not be placed too close together otherwise the lower leaves of neighbouring plants will not receive enough light. Due to its sensitivity to deteriorating conditions, R. macrandra is regarded as a good "indicator plant" in the aquarium. If lighting is inadequate, the lower portions of the stems tend to perish. A low nitrate (NO3) level coupled with a moderate phosphate (PO4) level should promote lush, compact intense red growth. Conversely, if nitrate is allowed to rise too high and phosphate is low, the growth will be leggier and the leaves much paler in colour. To ensure good colour, there must be enough micronutrients in the water; if the plant is looking washed out, then it is likely not receiving enough iron. Propagation is from cuttings.
We have a huge selection of aquarium plants available to buy in our stores across the UK and online. However, stock availability will vary from store to store so if you are looking to buy aquarium plants, please speak to your local store to check on stock availability before making a journey. Contact details can be found here.
For delivery before Christmas, orders must be placed on or before 3pm on Wednesday 20th December. We cannot guarantee delivery of these orders pre-Christmas as we are reliant on our couriers, but will use our best endeavours to get orders placed on this date out to you before Christmas. For full details of our festive delivery and opening times click here
Please note: online orders placed after 3pm on Friday 22nd December will not be dispatched until the New Year. For full details of our festive delivery and opening times click here
