ADA IC389 Rotala wallichii (Longleaf Green) – Elegant Feathered Stem Plant
Rotala wallichii features wispy, slender leaves that form feathery clusters, ideal for creating open midground to background landscapes. Under strong light and proper CO₂ dosing, foliage colors mature from lush green to subtle pink or red tones.
Plant Specifications
| Specification |
Detail |
| Type |
Stem / Midground–Background |
| Origin |
Southeast Asia |
| Growth Rate |
Fast |
| Height |
10–30 cm |
| Light Demand |
High (>0.5 W/L) |
| CO₂ Demand |
High (15–25 mg/L) |
| Fertiliser Demand |
High (macros & micros) |
| Difficulty |
Advanced |
| Plant Use |
Midground / Background Accent |
Care & Aquascaping Tips
- Requires bright lighting (≥0.5 W/L or strong PAR) and CO₂ injection to maintain dense growth and coloration :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
- Thrives in soft, slightly acidic water (pH 5–7, KH 0–1); hard water may impair foliage :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
- Regular nutrient dosing is essential—keep nitrates around 20–25 ppm, phosphorus 1–2 ppm, and include iron and micronutrients :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- Sensitive to parameter changes; acclimate slowly and avoid sudden shifts to prevent melt :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
- Frequent trimming of top shoots promotes branching and bushier appearance :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
Planting & Propagation Recommendations
- Plant in dense groups (3–5 stems together, 2–4 cm spacing) to form stunning midground/textural patches :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
- Use tweezers to anchor stems firmly into a nutrient-rich substrate.
- Harvest tops after 5–7 cm and replant cuttings to propagate and expand coverage.
- Pair with finer-leaf foreground plants and solid green background stems for layered composition.
