Rotala macrandra (Giant Red Rotala)
The diva that's absolutely worth the effort.
Rotala macrandra isn't known for being easy - it's known for being stunning. With broad, rippling leaves that range from orange-red to deep crimson, it's one of the most striking stem plants you can grow.
Give it good light, and it'll steal the show.
🌿 Why you want it
- Incredible red colour under the right conditions
- Broad, flowing leaves unlike most Rotalas
- Creates a stunning focal point
- One of the most iconic stem plants in aquascaping
💄 The showstopper
Most red plants add a splash of colour. Macrandra demands your attention.
When it's happy, there's very little else in the hobby that looks quite like it.
📍 Where it fits
- Best in the midground to background
- Plant in small groups where its colour can stand out against green plants
💡 Care
- Light: high
- CO₂: highly recommended
- Growth: medium
- Propagation: trim the tops and replant the cuttings
💧 Water tolerance
Prefers soft to moderately hard water with stable parameters. Sensitive to swings, so consistency is key, but it can adapt once settled and will reward stable conditions with exceptional colour.
💬 TBC take
This isn't the plant we'd recommend as your first stem plant.
But once you've got the basics sorted, it's one of those plants that makes you stop and admire your tank every time you walk past.