Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’ is a popular aquarium plant that belongs to the Lythraceae family. It is a variant of the species Rotala macrandra, which is native to Southeast Asia. This plant is known for its striking bright yellow color, which makes it a popular choice for aquascaping enthusiasts. In this article, we will discuss the features, care requirements, and propagation methods of Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow.’
Features of Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’
Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’ is a stem plant that can grow up to 30 cm in height. Its leaves are thin, narrow, and pointed, with a bright yellow coloration. The plant produces multiple stems that grow from the base and branch out as they reach the surface. This creates a bushy appearance that is perfect for creating dense foregrounds or mid-ground accents in aquascapes. The stems of the plant are thin and delicate, making it a great addition to tanks with smaller fish or invertebrates.
Care requirements for Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’
Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’ is a relatively demanding plant that requires specific care requirements to thrive. The plant needs high light levels of around 3-5 watts per gallon and CO2 injection to promote healthy growth. It also requires a nutrient-rich substrate and regular fertilization with liquid fertilizers to maintain its yellow coloration. It is crucial to maintain a stable temperature of around 24-28°C (75-82°F) to prevent stress and damage to the plant.
In addition to the specific care requirements, regular pruning and maintenance are necessary to keep Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’ healthy. The plant grows rapidly and can become overgrown, leading to reduced light and nutrient availability. Pruning the plant regularly not only ensures healthy growth but also promotes bushy and compact growth, making it ideal for aquascapes.
Propagation of Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’
Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’ is a relatively easy plant to propagate. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings that are at least 5-10 cm long. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, established plants and planted into a nutrient-rich substrate with high light and CO2 injection. The plant will root within a few days and start growing new leaves within a week.
Another propagation method for Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’ is through the process of replanting. Replanting is when a mature plant is carefully removed from the substrate and separated into smaller sections. Each section is then replanted into the substrate, where it will grow into a new plant. Replanting is an excellent way to rejuvenate older plants and promote new growth.
Conclusion
Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’ is a beautiful and striking plant that adds a pop of color to any aquascape. Its bright yellow coloration and bushy growth make it a popular choice among aquascaping enthusiasts. However, it is essential to note that the plant requires specific care requirements, including high light levels, CO2 injection, and nutrient-rich substrate. With proper care and maintenance, Rotala macrandra ‘Yellow’ can thrive in a home aquarium and bring life to any aquascape.
