Rosaefolia care guide
Rosaefolia (Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosaefolia') — high light, 22-28 °C, pH 5.5-7, CO2 recommended.
Overview
Rosaefolia (Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosaefolia') is an aquatic plant of the family Amaranthaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. It is typically grown under high light with pressurised CO2 injection on any substrate. Classic Alternanthera variant with strong pink-violet undersides and reddish tops. Robust mid-to-background red plant for high-light tanks; benefits from CO2.
Taxonomy
- Family: Amaranthaceae
- Genus: Alternanthera
- Scientific name: Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosaefolia'
- Common synonyms: Alternanthera reineckii var. rosaefolia
Habitat
Alternanthera reineckii (Amaranthaceae) is a marsh plant of South America that grows along seasonally flooded margins of slow rivers. Under bright submersed light leaves take on deep red and pink colours. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from South America.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: high
- CO2: recommended
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Substrate: aquasoil
- Maximum height: 40 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
Midground stem; small forms make compact accent groups, while larger varieties extend into the background under intense light. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground under high light with pressurised CO2 injection, using undefined.
Propagation
Propagated by cuttings; the upper tip is replanted in the substrate and roots within a few days. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: stem cuttings.
Common issues
Shading and weak light cause new leaves to revert to green and lower leaves to fall; restoring intense light and abundant micro-nutrients brings the red colour back.