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Rotala Rotundifolia Blood Red In Vitro – Vibrant Red Background Aquarium Plant for Aquascaping
 
Rotala rotundifolia ‘Blood Red’ In Vitro is a premium tissue culture aquarium plant known for its intense red coloration and fine, elegant leaves. Grown in sterile conditions, it arrives pest-free and ideal for high-end aquascapes and shrimp tanks. Under strong lighting and CO2, it develops rich red tones and dense background growth.
 
KEY BENEFITS
Deep red coloration under high light creates strong visual impact
100% pest-free and algae-free tissue culture plant
Fine leaves provide soft, natural texture in the background
Fast-growing stems ideal for shaping and layout control
Perfect for creating contrast against green plants
Multiple plantlets per pot for wider planting coverage
 
IDEAL FOR
Nature-style and Dutch aquascapes
High-tech planted tanks with CO2
Background planting in medium to large aquariums
Shrimp tanks and sensitive ecosystems
Aquascapers aiming for bold colour contrast
 
CARE SNAPSHOT
Difficulty: Moderate
Lighting: High
CO2: Recommended
Growth: Fast
Placement: Background
 
Rotala rotundifolia ‘Blood Red’ is one of the most sought-after red stem plants in aquascaping, valued for its ability to develop intense red hues under the right conditions. The In Vitro version ensures a clean start, free from algae, pests, and contaminants.
This plant features slender stems with small, rounded leaves that grow densely when trimmed regularly. As it matures, it forms vibrant, bushy groups that sway gently in the current, adding movement and softness to the background of an aquascape.
In layout design, it is typically used as a background plant where it creates depth and contrast behind rocks, wood, or midground species. Its bright red tones stand out particularly well against green carpeting plants and darker hardscape.
What makes ‘Blood Red’ unique is its ability to achieve strong red coloration without requiring extreme conditions compared to other red plants. With stable CO2, high lighting, and proper nutrients, it becomes a dominant visual feature in any planted tank.
As with most tissue culture plants, there may be a short transition period as it adapts to submerged conditions, but it quickly establishes and begins active growth.
 
SPECIFICATIONS
Scientific name: Rotala rotundifolia ‘Blood Red’
Common name: Blood Red Rotala
Origin: Southeast Asia
Height: 20–40 cm
Placement: Background
Lighting: High
CO2: Recommended
Temperature: 22–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.5
 
CARE GUIDE
Planting
Remove from the pot and rinse off all nutrient gel thoroughly. Divide into small portions and plant individual stems into aquasoil using tweezers. Space stems slightly to allow light and flow between them.
Trimming
Trim frequently to encourage bushy, dense growth. Replant cut tops to thicken the group and maintain a full background.
Feeding
Requires a nutrient-rich substrate and consistent liquid fertilisation. Iron supplementation helps intensify red coloration.
CO2 Notes
CO2 injection is strongly recommended. Stable CO2 levels are key to achieving vibrant red tones and preventing leggy growth.
 
FAQ SECTION
What makes this different from regular Rotala rotundifolia?
‘Blood Red’ develops much deeper red coloration, especially under high lighting and CO2.
Does it always stay red?
Colour depends on lighting, CO2, and nutrients. Lower light may result in more orange or green tones.
Is it suitable for beginners?
It can be grown by beginners, but best results come from stable, high-tech setups.
How fast does it grow?
It is a fast-growing stem plant, especially under strong lighting and CO2.
Is it safe for shrimp tanks?
Yes, the In Vitro format ensures it is completely pest-free and safe for shrimp.
How do I get it bushy?
Regular trimming and replanting of tops will encourage dense, compact growth.
 
PAIRS WELL WITH
Aquasoil substrates for strong root development
Pressurised CO2 systems for colour and growth
Liquid fertilisers with iron supplementation
Green carpeting plants like Monte Carlo or Hydrocotyle tripartita
Midground plants such as Pogostemon helferi
Hardscape layouts with stone or driftwood for contrast