Rotala rotundifolia ‘Shimoga’

Rotala rotundifolia Shimoga with narrow intense orange-red leaves as midground aquarium plant

Rotala rotundifolia ‘Shimoga’ is a rare and vibrant aquarium stem plant originating from India. This cultivar is prized for its intense orange-red narrow leaves, creating eye-catching highlights and colour contrasts in aquascapes.

Growing to 20-60 cm tall, it is ideal for midground planting in larger tanks or as a background highlight in nano and medium aquariums. Its upright stems and fine leaves add vertical texture, enhancing layout depth, especially when planted in groups.

Rotala ‘Shimoga’ thrives under high lighting with CO₂ injection, which is essential to maintain its bright orange-red colouration and healthy compact growth. Without CO₂ or strong light, its colours fade and growth becomes leggy.

It has a moderate to fast growth rate and benefits from regular trimming to encourage bushier growth and prevent overshadowing of surrounding plants. Propagation is easy via stem cuttings replanted into the substrate.

Orange-red aquarium stem plant:

Does Rotala ‘Shimoga’ need CO₂?
Yes - CO₂ injection is essential for maintaining its vivid colours and healthy compact growth.

Is Rotala ‘Shimoga’ suitable for low-tech tanks?
No - it requires high lighting and CO₂ to thrive and maintain its intense orange-red colours.

How do you propagate Rotala ‘Shimoga’?
Cut healthy stems and replant them into the substrate where they will root quickly.

Why is Rotala ‘Shimoga’ popular in aquascaping?
Its vibrant orange-red tones add warmth and striking contrast in aquascapes.