Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ [Tc]

Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ [Tc] or AR Mini is a dwarf form of the well-known Alternanthera Reineckii. Because of its bright and vibrant red colours, this plant is commonly used in Dutch aquascapes. Because of its small size, it can be used as a foreground, midground, or background plant in both large and small aquariums. For optimum growth, it, like other stem plants, requires medium to high light with the addition of CO2. It can grow emersed or submerged and can reach a height of 8 inches. AR Mini propagation is similar to that of any other stem plant; simply cut the stem and replant. The red Alternanthera reneckii (AR) comes in several varieties, with the AR “”mini”” gaining popularity because it is shorter and redder than the others. The shorter “”mini”” is in the foreground, with the slightly taller variegated “”Rosanervig”” behind it. The’mini’ varietal works well in the foreground/midground, while taller varieties, such as the ‘rosaefolia,’ work well in the background of a planted aquarium. They are generally slower growing than other stem plants and can tolerate some overcrowding and shading, making them ideal for aquascaping.

Alternanthera grows more slowly than other stem plants, and the AR “”mini”” version can grow very compactly. Because of its slower growth rate, it is more forgiving in terms of nutrient or CO2 demand. Using a soil-based substrate greatly aids in the stability of growth in this species.

It prefers not to be uprooted and replanted when trimmed. This means that cutting off tall shoots and allowing new side shoots to sprout naturally from the remaining base yields better results. This technique may be intimidating to newer aquarists because it requires cutting off the healthiest-looking top portions of the plant, but it results in a denser bush over time and reduces recovery time for this species. The cut top can be replanted elsewhere.

As with most coloured plants, good lighting aids in coloration. The ones in the pictures are grown in well over 100umols (PAR) of light. Higher lighting also allows for greater leaf density. The difficult part is keeping an algae-free tank with increased light. Alternanthera reineckii grows slowly and is prone to algae. The true test of growing them well is frequently maintaining an algae-free environment over time.

Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ [Tc] grows to what size?
For optimum growth, it, like other stem plants, requires medium to high light with the addition of CO2. It can grow emersed or submerged and can reach a height of 8 inches.

Is CO2 required for Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ [Tc] ?
Reineckia Alternanthera (these are grown in a CO2 injected tank). In a non-injected tank, these will grow normally, but the coloration will be more muted. The undersides of the leaves will always be bright red, whereas the topside requires more lighting and good growth conditions to show well.

Is Alternanthera reineckii simple to grow?
Although most red aquarium plants are difficult to grow, Alternanthera reineckii is relatively simple. Alternanthera reineckii grows vigorously and with good colour with adequate light and fertiliser, and adding CO2 will make these plants bright red.

Alternanthera reineckii ‘Mini’ [Tc] grows to what size?
It will still need to be sheltered in extremely cold climates. In the spring, Little RubyTM Alternanthera blooms with white flowers. Dimensions: 30-40cm x 60-90cm. Planting Density: 3-5 plants per square metre, 2-3 plants per linear metre.”