Reneckii rosaefolia

Also known as Alternanthera rosaefolia, it is a member of the Amaranthaceae family.

Alternanthera reineckii is one of many ornamental plants that thrive in the aquarium, aquatic plants are plants that have adapted to living in aquatic environments. These plants require special adaptations for living submerged in water, or at the water’s surface. The most common adaptation is aerenchyma, but floating leaves and finely dissected leaves are also common. Alternanthera reineckii is great for fry (baby fish) to hide from aggressive fish, it is also an oxygenator. However, remember the red color in the leaves is an indicator that this plant needs a good lighting system for the plant to grow and thrive.

It is an easy to grow stem plant that will thrive in most aquariums. The plant typically grows to a height of 20 to 50 cm, even taller under high light conditions. The width of each stem is about 10 to 15 cm based on leaf growth. The leaf is oblong-elliptic to ovoid.

In order to achieve strong shoots, the substrate should be nutrient rich and light intensity high. Three to five strong specimens can be used for the background area to help accent the shades of green aquarium plants. Alternanthera reineckii can grow well in both hard and soft water although soft, slightly acidic water is best. The optimum growth temperature is 23 to 27 C, although it can grow in temps from 22 to 28 C. It can withstand temps from 4 to 29 C.

Alternanthera reineckii requires moderate to high lighting (2 to 4 watts/gal) to do well. If kept in low-light tanks the lower leaves tend to fall off.

Separate each stem and plant individually. This will result in better growth and the lower leaves will still receive some light as this aquarium plant grows taller.

Plant Info