Pink Baby Tears Rotala rotundifolia

Pink Baby Tears (Rotala rotundifolia) is one of the most popular and beloved stem plants in the aquarium hobby, prized for its delicate, rounded leaves and the soft blush-pink to deep rose colouration it develops under good light. Fast-growing and forgiving, it creates a beautiful, feathery mass of colour in the mid to background of any planted tank, and responds dramatically to light intensity and CO2 — the stronger the conditions, the richer the pink. A must-have for any planted aquascape, from beginner low-tech setups to high-tech showpieces.

Propagation: Take stem cuttings of 5–10cm, remove lower leaves, and replant into the substrate. Trim regularly to encourage bushy, dense growth.

Care Guide

• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Light: Medium to High (high light deepens pink colouration)
• Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5 | Temp 22–28°C | Soft to moderately hard water
• CO2 Required: No (CO2 enhances colour and growth rate)
• Fertiliser: Regular liquid fertiliser; iron supplementation beneficial
• Placement: Midground to Background
• Skill Level: Beginner
• Max Size: 30–50cm