Scientific Name: Rotala sp. 'H'ra'
Common Name: Rotala H'ra, Rotala Hi Red
Origin: H'ra Region, Vietnam
Growth Rate: Fast
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Temperature: 22–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.5
GH: 2–10 dGH
KH: 0–6 dKH
High lighting is strongly recommended.
Intense light promotes the development of vibrant orange, pink, and fiery red coloration.
Under lower light conditions, the plant remains greener and develops elongated stems with wider spacing between leaves.
CO₂ supplementation is highly beneficial.
Encourages compact growth, dense foliage, and enhanced red coloration.
While it can grow without CO₂, its best coloration and growth form are achieved in a CO₂-enriched aquarium.
Requires regular supplementation of macro and micronutrients.
Adequate nitrate, phosphate, potassium, and trace elements support healthy growth.
Iron supplementation helps intensify red and orange hues.
Consistent nutrient availability promotes dense growth and vibrant coloration.
Best suited for the midground to background.
Commonly used as a colorful focal point or background accent.
Creates stunning contrast when planted alongside bright green stem plants and carpeting species.
Easily propagated through stem cuttings.
Cut healthy stem tops and replant them into the substrate.
Trimmed stems readily produce side shoots, resulting in dense, bushy groups.
Regular trimming encourages compact growth and fuller bushes.
Plant stems in groups to create a dramatic red focal area.
Stable CO₂, lighting, and nutrient levels are essential for maintaining intense coloration.
Good water circulation helps ensure even nutrient distribution and healthy growth.
Rotala sp. 'H'ra' (Hi Red) is one of the most popular red stem plants in modern aquascaping, valued for its ability to develop brilliant orange-red to deep crimson hues under favorable conditions. Its fine foliage, rapid growth, and excellent response to trimming make it ideal for creating vibrant background groups and colorful focal points. With strong lighting, stable CO₂ supplementation, and balanced fertilization, it forms dense, fiery-red bushes that add exceptional contrast, depth, and visual impact to Nature, Dutch, and high-tech planted aquariums.
