Rotala wallichii
Rotala wallichii
Also known aswhorled rotala
Water parameters
Light and nutrients
Substrate type: nutrient rich. Propagation: stem cuttings.
Substrate compatibility
| Substrate | pH effect | Nutrient load |
|---|---|---|
| Aquasoil (ADA Amazonia) | lowers pH | very high |
| Mineralized clay substrate (Seachem Fluorite) | neutral / inert | moderate |
| Dirted tank (mineralized topsoil) (DIY soil substrate) | slightly acidic | very high |
With fish
Origin and habitat
Native to Southeast Asia, found in marshes and shallow waterways. The species (Rotala wallichii) has extremely fine, needle-like leaves arranged in dense whorls along thin stems. Under high light with CO2, the whorls develop vivid pink to magenta-red coloring that makes it one of the most visually striking stem plants available. The fine-textured leaf whorls create a soft, feathery appearance similar to Myriophyllum but with the color potential of a premium red Rotala. Considered one of the more demanding Rotala species in the aquarium hobby, suited to experienced keepers with established high-tech setups. Named after Nathaniel Wallich, the Danish-born botanist who worked extensively in India and Southeast Asia in the early 19th century. The species is found in wetland habitats across its native range. In the aquarium trade, R. wallichii is positioned as a premium species for experienced keepers, and tissue culture availability has made it more accessible than it once was when only wild-collected specimens were available.
Care notes
Demanding. Requires high light (80+ PAR), pressurized CO2 (25-35 ppm), and meticulous nutrient management. Under suboptimal conditions, the lower portions of the stems shed their fine leaves and the plant deteriorates from the bottom up. Iron supplementation is critical for the pink-red coloration. The fine, needle-like leaves trap detritus and are vulnerable to algae in unbalanced tanks; stable, consistent dosing of macronutrients and micronutrients is essential. Plant stems in dense groups (10+) for the best visual effect. Growth under optimal conditions is moderate. Trim tops and replant; the cut stems may or may not produce side shoots reliably (less dependable than R. rotundifolia in this regard). Temperature: 22–28°C. pH 6.0-7.0 (prefers slightly acidic water). Soft water (GH 2-8). Very hard or alkaline water causes deterioration. Not a beginner plant. For keepers with dialed-in high-tech setups, the vivid magenta whorls of healthy R. wallichii are among the most beautiful sights in aquascaping. Available from specialty retailers as tissue culture.