Here is all about Rotala rotundifolia “Green” — a popular stem plant known for its lush bright green coloration, elegant vertical growth, and ease of care in low to high-tech aquariums.

🌿 Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Rotala rotundifolia "Green"

• Family: Lythraceae

• Common Name: Green Rotala

• Origin: Southeast Asia (cultivated variant of wild Rotala rotundifolia)

🟢 Note: Despite its name, the leaves are not round when submerged. The "Green" variant does not turn red even under intense light — unlike standard R. rotundifolia.

🌱 Appearance

• Leaf Shape: Narrow, lanceolate when submerged; rounded when emersed

• Color: Bright light green under all lighting conditions

• Growth Habit: Upright, bushy with trimming

• Height: 20 – 50 cm (8 – 20 inches)

• Width/Spread: ~2 – 5 cm per stem (can be densely planted)

💧 Ideal Tank Conditions

🌾 Growth & Propagation

• Growth Rate: Fast to moderate

• Propagation: Cut stem tops and replant in substrate

• Trimming: Promotes side-shooting and bushy clusters

• Spacing: Plant stems in groups with a little distance for light and flow

🌟 Aquascaping Use

• Ideal for midground to background

• Excellent bright green contrast to red or dark-toned plants

• Great for Dutch, nature-style, or jungle layouts

• Perfect for aquascaping beginners and low-tech tanks

🧠 Care Tips

• Regular trimming ensures compact, lush bushes

• CO₂ and strong lighting promote tighter internodes and vivid color

• Nutrient dosing (especially iron and potassium) encourages healthy leaf growth

• Avoid planting in shade; it can become leggy

⚠️ Potential Issues

• Grows tall and leggy in low light if not trimmed

• May shed lower leaves if light or nutrients are lacking

• Too much shade can hinder compact growth

🐠 Compatibility

• Safe with all peaceful fish and shrimp

• Excellent cover for fry and small invertebrates

• Avoid with aggressive or digging fish

📌 Summary

✅ Why Choose Rotala rotundifolia “Green”?

• Consistent bright green color

• Easier to care for than red Rotala types

• Great for low-tech and high-tech aquariums

• Looks beautiful in contrast with red plants like Ludwigia, Alternanthera, or Rotala H'ra