Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ – Compact Red Aquarium Plant for Vibrant Aquascapes
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ is a dwarf variant of the popular red stem plant, beloved by aquascapers for its intense pink to deep red coloration and compact growth pattern. It’s perfect for creating striking foreground and midground contrast in aquascapes, especially in Dutch, Iwagumi, or nature-style layouts.
The parent species, Alternanthera reineckii, originates from South America, where it grows along riverbanks and wetland margins. In aquariums, the ‘Mini’ form maintains smaller leaves and tighter internodes, forming dense bushes that can be trimmed into shape for a lush, colorful carpet effect under strong lighting.
Lighting: Requires medium to high light to develop deep red hues.
CO₂ & Nutrients: Strongly benefits from CO₂ injection and iron-rich fertilization.
Placement: Ideal for foreground or midground placement; trim tops and replant cuttings for bushier growth.
Water Conditions: Prefers 72–82°F (22–28°C), pH 6.0–7.5, and soft to moderately hard water.
Maintenance: Regular trimming keeps it compact and prevents shading of nearby plants.
Brilliant red coloration adds visual contrast.
Compact size makes it suitable for nano tanks.
Creates a lush red carpet under high-tech conditions.
Works beautifully with green carpeting plants like Monte Carlo or Hemianthus callitrichoides.
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ – Compact Red Aquarium Plant for Vibrant Aquascapes
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ is a dwarf variant of the popular red stem plant, beloved by aquascapers for its intense pink to deep red coloration and compact growth pattern. It’s perfect for creating striking foreground and midground contrast in aquascapes, especially in Dutch, Iwagumi, or nature-style layouts.
The parent species, Alternanthera reineckii, originates from South America, where it grows along riverbanks and wetland margins. In aquariums, the ‘Mini’ form maintains smaller leaves and tighter internodes, forming dense bushes that can be trimmed into shape for a lush, colorful carpet effect under strong lighting.
Lighting: Requires medium to high light to develop deep red hues.
CO₂ & Nutrients: Strongly benefits from CO₂ injection and iron-rich fertilization.
Placement: Ideal for foreground or midground placement; trim tops and replant cuttings for bushier growth.
Water Conditions: Prefers 72–82°F (22–28°C), pH 6.0–7.5, and soft to moderately hard water.
Maintenance: Regular trimming keeps it compact and prevents shading of nearby plants.
Brilliant red coloration adds visual contrast.
Compact size makes it suitable for nano tanks.
Creates a lush red carpet under high-tech conditions.
Works beautifully with green carpeting plants like Monte Carlo or Hemianthus callitrichoides.
