About Rotala rotundifolia (Buch.-Ham. ex Roxb.) Koehne
This plant, Rotala rotundifolia, has two distinct growth forms. Its emersed form produces rounded leaves, while its submerged form has narrow, lanceolate leaves. The overall shape and leaf color of the plant can change depending on light levels and other environmental conditions. When grown under strong light, its leaves can turn a deep, nearly wine red color. It produces pale pink flowers. It can be told apart from its close relative Rotala indica by the structure of their inflorescences: Rotala rotundifolia grows clusters of flowers in terminal inflorescences, while Rotala indica produces solitary flowers in the axils of its leaves. Rotala rotundifolia is a common aquarium plant. It is not difficult to cultivate, but it needs adequate light to grow well. It can tolerate relatively cool water temperatures. If the plant loses its lower leaves, this usually means it is not getting enough light. It can be grown in its emersed form in shallow water, and emersed plants will produce flowers. It is propagated through stem cuttings.
