Rotala Macrandra Mini Butterfly UNS Tissue Culture

Common Name: Butterfly Mini, Rotala Macrandra

Rotala macrandra is a striking mid- to background stem plant known for its bold red coloration, offering a dramatic contrast to typical green foliage. It’s considered a more demanding plant, requiring high light, rich nutrients, and CO2 to do well. Without adequate lighting, the lower leaves may melt away.

In its emersed form, the leaves tend to grow horizontally and remain green. Submerged, it grows upright and develops deep red-magenta tones. With the right conditions, Rotala macrandra grows quickly and displays its best color when nitrates are kept low and phosphate, iron, and micronutrients are maintained at higher levels. Pale leaves or white markings are signs of iron deficiency. It prefers soft, slightly acidic water and CO₂ levels between 15–25 ppm.

To propagate, trim healthy tops and replant it into the substrate. When planting, make sure you give each stem enough space to prevent light from being blocked at the base. Regular pruning encourages fuller, bushier growth.

Notes:

• Rotala has fragile leaves! Be sure to handle with care. 
• Final coloration is ultimately dependent upon the conditions this plant is kept in. This is a live plant meaning size, shape and color may vary.
• Do not make drastic changes to the aquarium. Unstable parameters will result in melt and rotting of the aquarium plant.
  
• CO2 injection and quality aquarium soil will yield better growth.
• Please research appropriately to ensure your plant thrives.

Family Name: Lythraceae
Origin: India
Height: 8-11”
pH: 5-7.5
Care: Difficult
Light: High
Co2: Required
Propagation: Trim side shoot and plant into substrate
Growth rate: Fast