Ammannia sp 'Bonsai' - Tissue Culture

Rotala indica 'Bonsai': The Miniature Stem Plant

The plant commonly sold as Ammannia sp. 'Bonsai' is generally considered to be the True Rotala indica or Rotala 'Bonsai'. It is a unique and compact stem plant/tissue culture valued in aquascaping for its ability to create a dense, low-growing, 'miniature tree' or hedge effect, making it ideal for the foreground and midground of an aquarium.

Unlike most stem plants, this variety grows slowly and horizontally when trimmed, rewarding the dedicated aquarist with an intricate, bushy appearance. Achieving the plant's best health and vibrant coloration, however, places it in the intermediate to moderate difficulty category.

Care & Cultivation Requirements:

• Lighting: Requires Medium to High light intensity. Strong lighting is essential for two key reasons: to keep the plant's growth compact and horizontal, and to bring out the attractive reddish or orange hues on the leaf tips and new growth. Under low light, the leaves will become larger and the plant will stretch (become leggy).
• CO2: Highly Recommended (Medium Demand). While some growth is possible without it, CO2 injection is strongly advised to maintain the plant's dense, compact form and vibrant color. Adequate CO2 prevents melting and is necessary for robust, stable growth. A medium CO2 level (around 6-14 mg/L) is often sufficient, but higher levels (up to 25 mg/L) are beneficial.
• Substrate & Fertilization: A nutrient-rich substrate (such as specialized plant soil or aquasoil) is beneficial for strong root development. Regular dosing of liquid macro and micro-nutrients, especially Iron (Fe), will enhance its red coloration and prevent nutrient deficiencies.
• Water Parameters: Prefers stable, soft, slightly acidic water.
  • Temperature: 72 ∘ F−82 ∘ F (22 ∘ C−28 ∘ C)
  • pH: 6.0−7.5 (Optimal range is slightly acidic)
• Propagation: Easy via Stem Cuttings. Simply cut the healthy top portion of a stem and replant it directly into the substrate. The original stem will produce side shoots, and the replanted tip will grow into a new plant.
• Maintenance: Regular, aggressive trimming of the tops is critical. This encourages the plant to branch out laterally, creating the dense, 'bonsai-like' bush that is prized in aquascaping. Without trimming, it will grow taller and less compact.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Rotala indica 'Bonsai' (often sold as Ammannia sp. 'Bonsai')
• Common Names: Ammannia Bonsai, True Rotala indica, Rotala Bonsai
• Origin: Cultivar (Original species from Asia)
• Max Size: 2-8 inches (5–20 cm) in height (varies with conditions)
• Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
• Placement: Foreground, Midground (ideal for nano-aquariums and structured layouts)
• Light Demand: Medium to High
• CO2 Requirement: Recommended (Medium to High Demand for Best Form)
• Care Difficulty: Intermediate