Origin and Common Names
Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz is a flowering aquatic plant that belongs to the Lythraceae family. Its native range includes the African countries of Angola, Gabon, Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, and Tanzania. It is also commonly known as the Rotala, African Rotala or Ukerewe Rotala.
General Appearance
The plant is a stem plant with bright green leaves that grow in opposite pairs. Each stem can reach up to 30 centimeters in length, with a width of around 2 to 3 centimeters. The leaves are oblong to linear in shape, and grow up to 15 millimeters in length and 2 millimeters in width. The plant's flowers are usually pink or light purple, arranged in clusters at the tips of the stems, and bloom during the summer season.
Uses
Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz is a popular aquatic plant that is often used as a decorative plant in aquariums. Its bright green leaves and colorful flowers can add an aesthetically pleasing look to any aquarium setting, making it a popular choice among aquarists and aquatic plant enthusiasts. The plant is also known to provide shelter for various aquatic animals and add oxygen to the water, making it a valuable addition to any aquatic environment.
Light Requirements
Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz thrives in bright, direct light. It requires at least six hours of sunlight daily, and should be placed near a south-facing window or under a grow light. Failing to provide enough light will cause the plant to grow slowly and become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
This aquatic plant prefers a warm, tropical environment. The ideal temperature for Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz to grow is within the range of 72-78°F. Temperatures below 70°F can shock the plant, while temperatures below 60°F can cause irreparable damage.
Soil Requirements
Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz is adaptable to a variety of substrates, from sand to gravel to nutrient-rich soil. However, the plant grows best in a nutrient-rich substrate that allows its roots to take root easily. Placing root tabs in the substrate beneath the plant will provide the nutrients it requires for optimal growth.
Cultivation of Rotala urundiensis
Rotala urundiensis is a submersed aquatic plant with red to brownish-red leaves. They usually grow up to 10-15 cm long and are a perfect choice for an aquarium. Here is a guide for cultivating and caring for Rotala urundiensis.
Watering Needs
For successful cultivation, the plant requires clean and nutrient-rich water. It is recommended to have a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 to stimulate growth. Regular water changes are also crucial to avoid the accumulation of organic wastes.
Fertilization
Rotala urundiensis is a fast-growing plant that requires regular fertilization. It would be best to supply the plant with a balanced and nutrient-rich aquarium fertilizer. It is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the dosage and application of the fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to encourage the plant's bushy growth and maintain its aesthetic appearance. It is best to trim the plant regularly and remove any old and damaged leaves. Rotala urundiensis can be propagated by cutting the stems and replanting them. It can be done during the pruning process.
Propagation of Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz
Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz can be propagated through various methods:
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are one of the most popular methods of propagating Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz. They are best taken from the top of the plant and should be about 5-10cm long. Once cut, remove the bottom leaves and plant the cutting in a substrate. Keep the substrate moist and in about 2-3 weeks, the cutting will start showing new growth.
Division
Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz can be propagated through division as well. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with their own roots and stems. This is best done during the plant’s active growing season. Simply remove the plant from the substrate and pull apart the sections. Replant the new sections into individual pots or back into the substrate.
Adventitious Plantlets
Rotala urundiensis A.Fern. & Diniz also produce adventitious plantlets. These are small plantlets that grow along the stem of the plant. These can be carefully removed from the stem and planted into a separate container with substrate. Make sure to keep the substrate moist and within 2-3 weeks, the plantlets will start growing into mature plants.
Regardless of the propagation method used, make sure to keep the substrate moist and provide adequate lighting for the plant to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Rotala urundiensis
Rotala urundiensis is a beautiful aquatic plant that can add an attractive touch to your aquarium. However, like any other plant, it can be vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can harm its growth and, ultimately, kill it. It's essential to take care of Rotala urundiensis properly and take preventive measures to combat potential plant diseases and pests effectively.
Common Plant Diseases of Rotala urundiensis and their Management
There are several diseases that can affect Rotala urundiensis. Here are some of the most common diseases and ways to manage them:
Bacterial Leaf Spot Disease
Bacterial leaf spot disease is a prevalent disease for most aquatic plants, including Rotala urundiensis. It is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. The bacterium causes small black spots on the leaves of the plant, which later enlarge and merge to destroy the leaf tissue, leaving small holes behind. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and avoid getting the water on the leaves when watering the plant. You can treat the plant with a copper-based fungicide solution.
Algae Bloom
Another prevalent disease that can affect Rotala urundiensis is an algae bloom. Algae bloom occurs when there is an excess of nutrients in the water. The overgrowth of algae can cause the plant to suffocate and die. To manage this disease, use a good filtration system that can remove excess nutrients from the water. You can also introduce some algae-eating fishes such as Siamese algae eaters.
Common Pests of Rotala urundiensis and their Management
Several pests can damage the growth, beauty, and life of the Rotala urundiensis. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Snails
Snails are common pests that can affect the growth of Rotala urundiensis. They feed on the leaves of the plant and can cause severe damage to the plant. To manage snails, use a snail trap to remove them from the aquarium. You can also add snail-eating fishes such as the assassin snail. Avoid overfeeding the fishes as leftover fish food provides the snails with nutrients to grow exponentially.
Sucking Insects
Sucking insects such as aphids can suck the sap from the leaves of Rotala urundiensis. They can weaken the plant and cause it to die. To manage them, you can use a systemic insecticide solution. You can also introduce some predator insects such as ladybugs or lacewings.
By taking preventive measures and managing these diseases and pests, you can enjoy a beautiful and healthy Rotala urundiensis in your aquarium for years to come.
