Rotala macrandra 'Variegated'

Rotala macrandra, native to southern India, is the parent species of R. macrandra 'Variegated', a variegated selection from the large-leaved standard form.¹² According to the specialist book, it is a virus-infected plant that appeared in cultivation; according to a forum post, the variegation was retained when the plant was isolated.¹³ Underwater it bears opposite, sessile, oblong-ovate and wavy leaves about 2–4 cm long, whose light pink to red venation stands out against the darker blade.²³

A balanced supply of macro- and micronutrients, CO₂ addition, fairly bright light and soft to moderately hard water are considered important.² It provides colourful accents in groups in the middle to rear of the tank and in Dutch-style plant streets.² The plant is demanding but grows quickly and is propagated by cuttings.