Rotala sp. ''Nanjenshan''

Description

Rotala sp. "Nanjenshan" is a fine-leaved plant originating from Taiwan's Nanjenshan location. Introduced by Dennerle in 1993, its species affiliation remains unknown due to lack of fruiting. The plant has been established in aquaristics and can be easily obtained. It grows submersed with narrow-lineal leaves that are light green to reddish in color, measuring 1.5-2 cm long and 0.5-1 mm wide. Leaves per node vary from 3 to 6, with truncate tips sometimes having two points. The stem is green. In its emersed form, Rotala sp. "Nanjenshan" has a creeping habit with some stems growing upwards. Emersed leaves are elliptic to lanceolate, measuring 0.5-1 cm long and 2-4 mm wide. Small flowers with light purple petals may develop in leaf axils. The plant prefers soft water rich in CO2, unhindered light, and ample iron for optimal growth. Constant fertilization is crucial to prevent stunted growth and blackening. The plant can be trimmed back to promote compact growth and lateral shoots. Rotala sp. "Nanjenshan" is suitable for small tanks.