Rotala Nanjenshan

Scientific Name: Rotala 'Nanjenshan'
Common Name: Rotala Nanjenshan
Origin: Cultivated variety (exact origin unknown; believed to be derived from Southeast Asian Rotala species)
Growth Rate: Fast
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–28°C
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• GH: 2–10 dGH
• KH: 1–6 dKH

Lighting

• Moderate to high lighting is recommended.
• High lighting promotes compact growth and the formation of its characteristic fine, needle-like leaves.
• Under low light, stems become elongated and foliage appears less dense.

CO₂ Requirement

• CO₂ supplementation is highly recommended.
• Encourages compact, bushy growth and improves overall plant health.
• Can grow without CO₂, but growth is slower and the plant may lose its dense appearance.

Nutrient Requirements

• Requires regular dosing of macro and micronutrients.
• Benefits from a balanced fertilization routine for healthy growth.
• Adequate iron and trace elements help maintain vibrant green coloration.
• Consistent nutrient availability encourages dense branching and vigorous development.

Placement in Aquarium

• Best suited for the midground or background.
• Ideal for creating dense bushes and textured backgrounds.
• Can also be used as an accent plant in Nature and Dutch-style aquascapes.

Propagation

• Propagated through stem cuttings.
• Trim healthy stems and replant the cuttings into the substrate.
• The replanted cuttings root quickly and develop into new plants.

Special Care Tips

• Trim regularly to encourage bushier growth and maintain an attractive shape.
• Provide stable CO₂, lighting, and nutrients for the best appearance.
• Avoid shading from taller plants, as adequate light is essential for compact growth.
• Good water circulation supports healthy development and prevents debris accumulation within dense bushes.

Aquascaping Use

Rotala 'Nanjenshan' is a unique and highly decorative stem plant valued for its fine, needle-like foliage and naturally bushy growth habit. Its delicate texture creates a soft, feathery appearance that contrasts beautifully with broad-leaved plants and hardscape materials. It is widely used in Nature, Dutch, and Iwagumi aquascapes to add depth, movement, and intricate detail. With regular trimming and proper care, it forms lush, rounded bushes that become an elegant focal point in planted aquariums.

🌱 Open the pot in a clean environment.
🧼 Gently remove the plants and rinse off all gel from the roots.
✂️ Carefully divide the plantlets without damaging the roots.
🌿 Place the plants into a suitable substrate.
💡 Ensure adequate light, nutrients, and CO₂ (if required).
💧 Keep water parameters stable for healthy growth.
🍃 Some older leaves may melt during transition; new growth will emerge.

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