Rotala macrandra 'Butterfly'

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

It is best placed as a focal point in the midground or background, where its bright colors can stand out against green plants. Ensure it is planted in an area with unobstructed, intense lighting. Planting in small, loose groups rather than dense bunches helps ensure that lower leaves receive adequate light and water flow.

Botanical form

Stem

This 'Butterfly' variant features slightly smaller, very delicate, deeply colored foliage. This species features large, slightly wavy, ovate leaves that develop a deep, translucent red to magenta color under intense light. The stems are fragile and can easily snap if handled roughly. Its large, colorful leaves make it one of the most striking stem plants available in the hobby.

Growth

Medium

Under ideal high-tech conditions, it exhibits a very fast growth rate, quickly reaching the water surface. However, if conditions are sub-optimal, its growth will stall, and the plant will deteriorate rapidly. The fast growth necessitates regular, careful trimming to maintain its shape and health.

Substrate

High

The 'Butterfly' variant of *Rotala macrandra* requires a heavily fertilized, fine-grained aquatic soil to fuel its uniquely shaped leaves and vivid coloration. Its root system actively mines the substrate for vital nutrients, making a robust, iron-rich bottom layer absolutely essential for thriving. It is best planted in a substrate depth of around 5 to 7 centimeters to allow its roots to establish a secure hold. An enriched, uncompacted soil environment ensures uninterrupted nutrient uptake and promotes incredibly lush, dense growth.

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilization must be heavily maintained, focusing on a strong supply of micronutrients and iron. It absorbs most of its needed nutrients directly from the water column through its delicate leaves. Maintaining lower nitrate levels relative to phosphate can sometimes enhance its deep red pigmentation.

Root fertilization

None

While it feeds primarily from the water column, a nutrient-rich active soil substrate is highly recommended. The soft substrate allows its delicate roots to anchor securely and provides a backup source of essential minerals. Root tabs can be beneficial in older setups where the soil has depleted.

Trimming

Occasional

Trimming must be done with extreme care using sharp scissors, as the stems are easily bruised or crushed. Replant the healthy top cuttings to maintain the thicket, as the lower cut stems may sometimes struggle to branch out if light is poor. Removing old, bare lower stems entirely is often preferred to topping.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is done by taking top cuttings and carefully planting them into soft, active soil. The cuttings will root within a few days under high light and stable CO2 conditions. Handle the cuttings gently by the very bottom of the stem to avoid crushing the delicate tissues.

Sensitivity

Moderate

This is one of the most sensitive plants in the hobby, prone to melting if water parameters, CO2, or light levels fluctuate. It easily drops its lower leaves if shaded or if water circulation is inadequate. It is also highly susceptible to algae if the tank's nutrient balance is slightly off.

Layout role

Midground, accent, Nano

Rotala macrandra is the ultimate red focal point plant for Dutch style and high-tech Nature Aquariums. Its intense coloration and large leaves provide a dramatic contrast against light green carpeting plants or delicate background stems. It requires careful placement to ensure it doesn't overshadow other delicate species.