I think success with this plant has alot to do with your water. Mine must be good for this plant, because I'm not really doing anything that special. My water is very hard, which is a supposed no no for macrandra. Hard water has more micro nutrients in it which Macrandra needs plenty of. Maybe thats partly why it does so well for me. I keep my macros at a ratio of 10NO3, 1PO4, I0K, give or take, dose two to three times a week depending on test results. Change 25% water once a week. Have eco-complete substrate and using Wizzards light theory, I have 5.7 WPG T-5 lighting. The old way using wattage consumed(wattage on the bulb added together) and not lumen output, I'm at 4WPG. Either way, high light. This is a must for this plant. Don't plant your stems to close together as the bottom leaves will die off and stems rot. I found re-planting the healthy tops keeps this plant growing healthy and red. Once you get it to root your on your way. Pull out the old bottom, roots and all and toss it. Good luck!