Ottelia ulvifolia is native to the tropics of Africa.

It is a demanding plant and requires intense lights and a rich substrate to do well. Under optimum conditions, its curly leave blades will be blood red.

It will only thrive in very soft waters with very little calcium. The plant is fragile and the leaves are very delicate. It must be protected from snails other boisterous fishes. It makes an ideal specimen plants for an aquarium.