Plants
Ammannia 'Bonsai'
Ammannia sp. 'Bonsai'
Origin: 'Ammannia Bonsai' is a trade name for a compact Asian plant of the loosestrife family, often attributed to Rotala indica. It comes from marshy habitats and rice fields of Southeast Asia.
Also known as: Ammannia sp. 'Bonsai', Rotala indica 'Bonsai'
Fact sheet
- Height
- 15 cm
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Lighting
- High
- CO₂
- Recommended
- Growth rate
- Slow
- Placement
- Midground, Foreground
Overview
Ammannia Bonsai is a miniature, slow-growing stem plant with rounded leaves, ideal for the midground and nano aquariums. Under strong light the tips and stems take on a reddish-orange tone, making it an attractive accent. Its slow growth and compactness make it easy to keep in neat groups. It needs good lighting and, preferably, CO2 dosing for rich colour and a dense habit. The 'Bonsai' name is commercial, and its exact taxonomy is disputed.
Appearance
Low, dense stems bear opposite rounded or oval leaves about 1–2 cm long. Colour ranges from light green to reddish-orange at the tips under bright light. Height is usually 10–15 cm, with short internodes giving the compact 'bonsai' look.
Care
It needs strong light, 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, and soft to medium-hard water. CO2 dosing is recommended for compact growth and colour. It grows slowly, which reduces trimming frequency but calls for stable conditions.
Fertilizing
It feeds through roots and leaves. Iron and micronutrients matter for the reddish colour, while macronutrients and CO2 drive growth. Nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial.
Breeding
It propagates by cuttings: tops are cut and replanted while the stem sends out side shoots. Because of slow growth it spreads gradually.
Fun facts
'Bonsai' is a commercial name, and the plant is often equated with Rotala indica rather than a true Ammannia. The compactness comes from short internodes under bright light. Mislabelling is common, with various similar plants sold under this name.