Rotala rotundifolia ‘orange juice’

Rotala rotundifolia ‘Orange Juice’ is a stunning stem plant known for its unique coloration, ranging from green-yellow and soft orange to vibrant orange-red under optimal conditions. Its slender stems and small rounded leaves form dense, attractive bushes, making it an excellent choice for midground to background placement in planted aquariums.

This fast-growing plant is relatively easy to care for and rewards aquarists with striking colour when provided with strong lighting, stable CO₂, and adequate nutrients. Its bright orange tones resemble fresh orange juice, creating a beautiful focal point in any aquascape.

Care Requirements:
• Lighting: Medium to high
• CO₂: Recommended for optimal growth and coloration
• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Placement: Midground to background
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Care Tips:
• Plant individual stems 2–3 cm apart to allow good light penetration and healthy bush formation.
• Provide strong lighting for 6–8 hours per day to encourage vibrant orange coloration.
• Supplement with CO₂ and a quality liquid fertilizer containing trace elements, especially iron, for the best colour development.
• Trim regularly to promote side shoots and create a fuller, denser appearance.
• Propagate easily by cutting healthy stem tops and replanting them into the substrate.

Rotala rotundifolia ‘Orange Juice’ is an excellent choice for aquascapers looking for a colourful yet easy-to-grow stem plant that adds warmth, contrast, and visual interest to any planted aquarium.