Alternanthera Reineckii Aquarium Plant, Red Stem Accent for Midground or Background Aquascapes

Alternanthera reineckii is a red aquarium stem plant with thicker, wider leaves than Rotala. Each order includes 5–7 stems for planting directly into aquarium substrate.

Use it as a background or midground plant, or keep it trimmed for a lower position. Small roots develop periodically along the stems, making trimmed tops easy to replant and spread through the tank.

The plant tolerates low lighting, although it grows faster and looks better under higher light. It can handle temperatures in the upper 60s Fahrenheit and prefers a steady 70–74°F range.

Key Features

• Red leaves become especially impressive once the plant is established.
• Periodic roots along the stems support trimming and replanting.
• Suitable for background or midground placement and can be maintained lower through trimming.
• Handles low light, with faster growth and a better appearance under higher light.
• Rated 3 on a 1–10 care scale, where higher numbers indicate greater difficulty.
• A few thin leaves may fall during the transition between tanks.

Specifications

• Plant: Alternanthera reineckii “Regular”
• Quantity: 5–7 stems
• Lighting: Low light tolerated; higher light supports faster growth and a better appearance
• Preferred temperature: 70–74°F; can handle temperatures in the upper 60s°F
• Planting: Remove any binding and insert the bottom of each stem directly into the substrate
• Propagation: Trim the top and replant it
• Placement: Midground or background; may be kept trimmed for lower placement

Plant the stems directly in the substrate, allow them to establish, and trim as needed for the desired height. Replant healthy tops to spread the red stems through your aquascape, and expect that a few leaves may drop during the transition.