Kaiser Aquatics Alternanthera Reinecki mini

🍁 Alternanthera Reineckii 'Mini' Care Guide

🧬 Overview

• Scientific Name: Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini'

• Common Name: AR Mini

• Type: Stem plant (dwarf variety)

• Placement: Foreground to midground

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

• Difficulty: Moderate

💡 Lighting

• Requirement: Medium to high

• Tip: High-intensity lighting brings out the deep red and pink hues. In low light, it tends to grow taller and greener.

🧪 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• CO₂: Highly recommended for compact growth and vibrant color

🌱 Substrate & Nutrients

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate is ideal for root development

• Fertilization: Needs regular fertilization, especially iron and micronutrients to maintain red coloration

• CO₂ Supplementation: Helps maintain its compact form and enhances coloration

✂️ Maintenance & Propagation

• Trimming: Trim often to maintain a carpet-like shape and prevent legginess

• Propagation: Cut healthy stems and replant; trimming encourages side shoots and bushier growth

🐠 Tankmates

• Best with peaceful species

• Shrimp-safe

• Avoid aggressive or plant-damaging fish like large cichlids or goldfish

💬 Tips

• Needs stable conditions to thrive—sudden changes can cause melting or stunted growth.

• Plant in small bunches a few centimeters apart to encourage horizontal spread.

• Works beautifully as a contrast plant in nature-style aquascapes due to its intense color.