Rotala Rotundifolia 'Orange Juice'

Rotala Rotundifolia 'Orange Juice' (Rotala OJ) is an Italian-developed cultivar of the widespread Southeast Asian species Rotala rotundifolia, featuring bright orange coloration. It can be grown submersed or emersed, producing rounder leaves emersed and longer, narrower leaves submersed. Dosing high iron and a complete plant fertilizer brings out its intense coloration. Great for background placement, adding contrast to the usual green plants. Best planted densely, separating bundles into individual stems spaced about half an inch apart — when planted in groups, it has a dazzling effect as a thick orange bush in the aquascape.

Care & Planting: Cut anywhere along the stem and replant to propagate. Grows relatively fast — frequent pruning keeps it thick and prevents lower leaves from being starved of light. Handle gently — leaves are fragile.

A note on appearance: Many stem plants, including this one, are harvested in their above-water (emersed) form, and the photo may not reflect how it looks once fully adjusted to life underwater. Leaf shape and coloration commonly shift as the plant transitions to submersed growth — don't be surprised if new growth looks different from what arrived in your order. Give it a few weeks to acclimate before judging its final look.