Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ – Tissue Culture
Scientific Name: Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’
Common Names: AR Mini, Dwarf Scarlet Temple
Type: Stem plant
Placement: Foreground to midground
Growth Rate: Moderate
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Lighting: Medium to high
Sales Description
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ is one of the most popular red aquarium plants, prized for its compact growth, rich burgundy to crimson coloration, and exceptional suitability for detailed aquascaping. This dwarf cultivar stays significantly smaller than standard Alternanthera reineckii, making it ideal for foreground and midground placement where its intense red tones create a dramatic focal point.
Sold in sterile tissue culture form, this plant is completely free from algae, snails, and unwanted pests. Tissue culture plants are perfect for shrimp tanks and display aquariums, and each cup can be divided into several portions to provide excellent coverage throughout your aquascape.
Care Guide
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ thrives under medium to high lighting, with stronger light levels promoting the deepest and most vibrant red coloration. CO₂ injection is strongly recommended to achieve compact growth, healthy leaves, and dense bush formation. Without CO₂, the plant may grow more slowly and exhibit greener or less intense coloration.
A nutrient-rich substrate combined with regular dosing of liquid fertilizers will support optimal growth. Root tabs are especially beneficial, as this species feeds heavily through its roots. Consistent levels of nitrate, phosphate, potassium, and iron are important for maintaining vivid coloration and preventing deficiencies.
Ideal water parameters include temperatures between 72–82°F (22–28°C), a pH of 5.5–7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Stable conditions and routine water changes are essential to keep this plant healthy and algae-free.
Regular trimming encourages the plant to grow into a dense, low-growing bush. Cut tops can be replanted directly into the substrate to create fuller groupings and expand coverage.
Propagation
Propagation is easy through stem cuttings. Healthy trimmed tops root quickly when replanted, allowing the aquarist to thicken existing clusters or establish new plant groups.
