Rotala macrandra "Butterfly Type 4

The Rotala Macrandra Mini Butterfly Type 4 is a specific cultivar of the Rotala genus, particularly prized in aquascaping for its vibrant colors, compact growth, and unique leaf structure. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Key Characteristics:

1. Leaf Structure:

   • Small, delicate, and rounded leaves, smaller than the standard Rotala macrandra.
   • The "Mini Butterfly" name refers to the compact and somewhat curved leaf shape resembling butterfly wings.

2. Coloration:

   • Intense pink, red, or orange hues under optimal conditions.
   • Bright coloration is heavily influenced by high lighting, CO₂ injection, and nutrient availability.

3. Growth Habit:

   • Compact and bushy, making it suitable for foreground or midground placement in aquascapes.
   • Slower-growing than standard macrandra varieties, which allows for precise aquascaping control.

4. Height:

   • Stays relatively low compared to other Rotala macrandra types, usually around 5–15 cm (2–6 inches), depending on trimming and growing conditions.

Care Requirements:

1. Lighting:

   • High-intensity lighting is necessary to maintain its vibrant colors and compact growth. Insufficient light may cause greenish hues or leggier growth.

2. CO₂ Injection:

   • Essential for its health and to achieve the best coloration.
   • CO₂ levels of 20–30 ppm are recommended.

3. Substrate and Nutrients:

   • A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial for root health.
   • Regular fertilization, including nitrates (in lower concentrations), phosphates, and micronutrients, is crucial. A slight nitrate deficiency enhances red pigmentation.

4. Water Parameters:

   • Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
   • pH: 5.5–7.0
   • Hardness: Prefers soft to moderately soft water (KH 0–4, GH 4–6).

Aquascaping Tips:

1. Placement:

   • Best used as a foreground or midground plant due to its compact size and vibrant colors.
   • Creates a stunning contrast when paired with green plants like Hemianthus callitrichoides or Rotala rotundifolia green.

2. Trimming:

   • Regular pruning encourages lateral branching and maintains a dense, bushy appearance.
   • Avoid heavy trimming, as it may slow regrowth.

3. Aquascape Styles:

   • Ideal for Dutch-style tanks as a highlight plant.
   • Fits well in Nature-style layouts, adding a pop of color to green-dominated scapes.

Challenges:

• Sensitive to water quality and prone to melting or stunted growth in unstable conditions.
• Requires careful balance of nutrients to avoid algae outbreaks, as it thrives in high-light and high-CO₂ environments.

If you're planning to add Rotala Macrandra Mini Butterfly Type 4 to your aquarium, maintaining stable, high-quality water and consistent care is key to bringing out its full potential. Let me know if you need tips on where to source it or specific care instructions!

Quantity: 1 PER STEM PLANT