Rotala Tulunadensis

Rotala tulunadensis

Origin: Southwestern India (Tulunadu region, Karnataka)

Family: Lythraceae

Growth Rate: Moderate

Height: 10–30 cm

Lighting: Medium to High

CO₂: Recommended

pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5

Temperature: 22–28°C

Placement: Midground to Background

Difficulty: Medium

Scientific Background:

Rotala tulunadensis is a relatively recent introduction to the aquarium trade, named after the Tulunadu region of Karnataka, India, where it was originally documented. It belongs to the Lythraceae family, the same as other popular Rotala species, and shares many growth characteristics with Rotala macrandra, though it is generally easier to manage and less demanding.

Aquascaping Notes:

This species features vibrant reddish stems with narrow, lanceolate leaves that vary from bright green to soft pink under high light. It serves beautifully as a transitional plant between green and red species in Dutch-style layouts or high-tech Nature Aquariums. When grown under optimal conditions—strong lighting, stable CO₂, and nutrient-rich water—it can develop compact, bushy growth with enhanced coloration. Trimming encourages dense, lateral branching.

3 stems per portion