Alternanthera Reineckii (Alternanthera reineckii) Care Guide
A striking red stem plant that provides a vivid color contrast in planted aquariums. Requires high light and CO2 to maintain its intense red and purple coloration.
Overview
Alternanthera reineckii is an aquatic plant in the family Amaranthaceae. A striking red stem plant that provides a vivid color contrast in planted aquariums. Requires high light and CO2 to maintain its intense red and purple coloration.
Taxonomy
- Family: Amaranthaceae
- Genus: Alternanthera
- Scientific name: Alternanthera reineckii
- Other names: AR, Scarlet Temple
Habitat
Native to South America (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay). Grows along the margins of rivers and floodplains; the genus Alternanthera includes several aquatic species in the amaranth family. Several cultivated forms ("Rosanervig", "Mini", "Roseafolia") circulate in the hobby.
Growth requirements
- Light: high (≥80 PAR at substrate)
- CO2: pressurised CO2 recommended
- Temperature: 22-28 °C
- pH: 6-7
- GH: 3-10 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil or fertilised gravel
- Nutrient demand: high
- Growth rate: medium
- Difficulty: intermediate
Placement
- Recommended placement: midground
- Maximum height: 30 cm
- Trim every: 14 days
Propagation
In cultivation the plant is propagated by stem cuttings (replant the upper portion after trimming).