Rotala sp. “Nanjenshan” is a unique and attractive aquatic plant with the following characteristics:

Origin

This plant is native to Taiwan, specifically found in a single location near the town of Nanjenshan158.

Light Conditions

• Rotala Nanjenshan requires medium to high lighting to thrive. Optimal lighting is in the range of 3 to 5 watts per gallon, with full spectrum lighting in the 5700 to 7000 kelvin range to bring out the best coloration and growth rate23.

Water Conditions

• The ideal water temperature for this plant is between 74°F and 82°F (23°C to 28°C)23.
• The water pH should be between 5.8 and 7.523.
• Water hardness (KH) can range from 3 to 112.

Planting and Care

• Planting: This plant can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cut the desired height of the plant, strip the leaves off an inch above where the stem will be placed into the substrate, and then push the stem into the substrate. The plant will grow roots from the last node of the stem26.
• Substrate: It does well in a dense aquarium substrate of fine gravel, approximately 2 to 3 inches in depth2.
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate water flow is recommended, as strong water flow can damage the plant’s delicate structure2.
• Fertilization: Provide fertilizers containing iron, potassium, and trace elements. CO2 supplementation can enhance growth rate and coloration, though it is not mandatory. For those not using CO2, a dosing product with bio-available organic carbon (like Seachem Flourish Excel) is recommended2.

Growth Habit

• Rotala Nanjenshan has a bushy growth habit with fine, lanceolate leaves that are typically light green, sometimes with reddish shoot tips. It grows to about 5-12 inches in height and is suitable as a mid-ground plant in aquariums125.

Compatibility

• This plant is best suited for aquariums with smaller fish species or larger, less active fish to avoid damage to its fragile stems2.