Rotala sp. ‘Pearl’

Rotala macrandra ‘Pearl’ is a stunning and compact aquarium stem plant prized for its small, rounded leaves with bright pink to red coloration. Under high lighting and CO₂ injection, its colours intensify, creating an eye-catching highlight in planted tanks.

Growing to 20-40 cm tall, it is ideal for midground planting in larger aquariums or as a background accent in nano tanks. Its compact growth and dense bushy form make it perfect for Dutch aquascapes and colour block planting.

Rotala macrandra ‘Pearl’ requires high lighting, CO₂ injection, and nutrient-rich fertilisation, particularly iron, to maintain healthy growth and vivid colours. Without optimal conditions, its colours fade, and growth becomes weak and leggy.

With a moderate growth rate, it benefits from regular trimming to promote bushier, compact tops and prevent shading of surrounding plants. Easy to propagate by cutting healthy stems and replanting into the substrate.

Compact aquarium stem plant:

Does Rotala macrandra ‘Pearl’ need CO₂?
Yes - CO₂ injection is essential for compact growth and vibrant colouration.

Is Rotala macrandra ‘Pearl’ suitable for low-tech tanks?
No - it requires high light, CO₂, and fertilisation to thrive and maintain its pink-red colours.

How do you propagate Rotala macrandra ‘Pearl’?
Trim healthy tops and replant them into the substrate where they will root easily.

What makes Rotala macrandra ‘Pearl’ unique?
Its compact form, small rounded leaves, and bright pink-red coloration make it a striking highlight plant.