Alternanthera reineckii Mini | Aquatic Plant

Alternanthera reineckii Mini | Aquatic Plant

$19.99

Category: Aquatic Plants Tag: Alternanthera reineckii Mini

Description
Reviews (0)

The Alternanthera reineckii Mini is a captivating, newer variation of the familiar Alternanthera reineckii plant. Sometimes referred to as A. reineckii “rosaefolia minor”, it boasts a compact growth pattern that’s notably slower, making it perfect for smaller aquariums. With proper trimming, you can cultivate a beautiful carpet reaching about 5 cm in height, displaying hues ranging from purple-red to brownish red. Alternatively, it can be shaped into a dense bush, ideal for foreground or midground placement. To thrive, this plant requires ample light and the addition of CO2.

Alternanthera reineckii “rosaefolia minor” is a stunning dwarf variety of A. reineckii, known for its compact, low-growing bushes when grown underwater. Its deep brownish-red color resembles that of A. reineckii ‘Rosa’ (also known as “Rosaefolia”), making it one of the few red foreground plants available. Its introduction to Europe dates back to around 2007, though its precise origins remain uncertain. It’s believed to be essentially the same as Alternanthera reineckii Mini.

When grown above water, A. reineckii “rosaefolia minor” resembles the emerged forms of other A. reineckii varieties, producing long stems with elongated spaces between nodes. However, its distinctive dwarfed growth pattern, characterized by shortened internodes, is exclusive to its submerged form. Underwater, its stems reach a maximum length of about 20 cm, sprouting numerous lateral shoots, creating a bushy appearance, along with “aerial” roots that do not disrupt its visual appeal. Its cultivation requirements are similar to those of other A. reineckii varieties: moderate to high light, temperatures between 22-28 °C, and adequate CO2 and nutrient supply.

As a submerged plant, A. reineckii “rosaefolia minor” exhibits relatively slow growth and reproduction rates. Its population typically doubles in about six weeks, according to information from Jaap Liefting of aquaplantexchange.nl. Propagation is achieved through cuttings from the top or lateral shoots, or by dividing the bushes.

Traditionally, this petite Alternanthera has found favor in Dutch-style aquascapes, such as those by Michael Kloos, where it serves as a vibrant red contrast to green plants of varying heights. It provides a striking visual complement to taller red plants placed at a distance. While it’s less common in the “Asian” nature aquarium style, it could offer an intriguing red accent alongside plants like Staurogyne repens, which share a similar leaf structure but exhibit a fresh green hue.

Detailed information about Alternanthera reineckii mini aquatic plant:

Synonyms: Alternanthera reineckii ‘rosaefolia minor’
Botanical Name: Alternanthera reineckii Briq.
Family: Amaranthaceae
Genus: Alternanthera
Difficulty: Medium
Color: Red-brown, crimson, reddish
Usage: Accent (red), Midground, Nano tanks, Street (Dutch style), Foreground, group
Aquascaping: Well-branched, bushy, colorful plant for accents
Height: 5 – 30cm
Width: 5 – 10cm
Growth: Medium
pH Value: 5 – 7
Temperature Tolerance: 4 – 30°C
Carbonate Hardness: 0 – 14°dKH
General Hardness: 0 – 30°dGH
Propagation: Cuttings, Splitting, cutting off daughter plants
Can grow emersed? Yes