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Heteranthera Rotundifolia

Heteranthera Rotundifolia

Description

Heteranthera Rotundifolia, also known as the Roundleaf Mudplantain or Water Star Grass, is a popular aquatic plant that belongs to the Pontederiaceae family. It is native to North and South America and is commonly found in slow-moving streams, ponds, and lakes. H. Rotundifolia is a perennial plant that can grow up to 30 cm tall and spread up to 60 cm wide. It has a unique growth pattern and produces small white flowers that bloom in summer and fall.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Tracheophyta
Class Liliopsida
Order Commelinales
Family Pontederiaceae
Genus Heteranthera

Appearance

H. Rotundifolia has unique round-shaped leaves that can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The leaves are green and have a slightly glossy texture. The plant produces long, thin stems that grow up to 30 cm tall and have clusters of small white flowers. The flowers have six petals and a yellow center. H. Rotundifolia can also produce runners that can spread the plant throughout the aquarium.

Care Guide

To take care of H. Rotundifolia, it is important to provide it with the right water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.Water: H. Rotundifolia prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It also requires good water circulation and a moderate water flow rate.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized regularly with a complete liquid fertilizer that contains essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Soil: H. Rotundifolia can thrive in a variety of substrates, including sand or gravel. However, it is essential to ensure that the substrate is nutrient-rich and provides good drainage.Sunlight: H. Rotundifolia requires moderate to high light levels to grow and flourish. It should be placed in a well-lit area of the aquarium or provided with artificial light.Hardiness Zones: H. Rotundifolia can survive in a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

H. Rotundifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to algae growth, which can be controlled by reducing the amount of light and providing good water circulation. The plant can also be prone to rot if there is poor water quality, so it is essential to maintain a clean and healthy aquarium environment.

Habitat

H. Rotundifolia is native to North and South America and can be found in slow-moving streams, ponds, and lakes. It is commonly used as an aquarium plant and can also be grown in outdoor ponds or water gardens.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I fertilize H. Rotundifolia?

A: H. Rotundifolia should be fertilized once a week with a complete liquid fertilizer.

Q: Can H. Rotundifolia be grown in outdoor ponds?

A: Yes, H. Rotundifolia can be grown in outdoor ponds or water gardens as long as the water temperature is within its hardiness zone range.

Q: Does H. Rotundifolia require CO2 supplementation?

A: While CO2 supplementation is not required, it can enhance the plant’s growth and overall health.

Q: How can I propagate H. Rotundifolia?

A: H. Rotundifolia can be propagated by using runners or by dividing the plant at the roots.

Related Plants

  • Heteranthera Zosterifolia
  • Heteranthera Callifolia
  • Heteranthera Reniformis

References

  • https://www.aquariumcarebasics.com/aquarium-plants/heteranthera-rotundifolia/
  • https://www.aquasabi.com/aquatic-plants/stem-plants/heteranthera-rotundifolia
  • https://www.aquariumcoop.com/blogs/aquarium/heteranthera-rotundifolia-care-guide

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