AquaDepot Alternanthera reineckii 'Red Alt' - Live Plant - Tissue Culture

Alternanthera reineckii 'Red Alt' Tissue Culture is a vibrant stem plant prized for its rich red to burgundy foliage, making it an eye-catching feature in planted aquariums. Its narrow, slightly pointed leaves grow in opposing pairs along sturdy upright stems, creating a striking contrast against green aquatic plants. Under high lighting, with the addition of CO₂ and regular fertilisation, the foliage develops its deepest red colouration. Frequent trimming encourages side shoots and branching, producing a dense, bushy display that is ideal for midground or background planting.

Care Requirements:

Alternanthera reineckii 'Red Alt' is best suited to intermediate and experienced aquascapers, as it thrives under moderate to high lighting with the addition of CO₂. Plant individual stems into a nutrient-rich substrate, allowing space between each stem to encourage healthy growth and water circulation. Regular dosing of a quality fertiliser, particularly one containing iron and trace elements, will help maintain vibrant red foliage and vigorous growth. Consistent trimming promotes a compact, bushy appearance and prevents the lower leaves from being shaded. Stable water parameters and routine maintenance will keep this colourful stem plant looking its best.

Potential Issues and Tips:

Melting: Newly introduced tissue culture plants may experience some leaf loss as they transition to submerged aquarium conditions. Stable water parameters, adequate lighting, and patience will help the plant establish successfully.

Algae: Excessive light without balanced nutrients or CO₂ can encourage algae to grow on the leaves. Maintaining a balanced fertilisation routine and performing regular water changes will help minimise algae issues.

Colour Loss: If lighting is too low or iron and micronutrient levels are insufficient, the plant's vibrant red colour may fade to green or bronze. Higher light intensity and regular nutrient dosing will encourage richer red tones.

Leggy Growth: Insufficient light can cause stems to stretch with larger gaps between leaves. Increasing light intensity and trimming regularly will encourage compact, dense growth.

Tissue cultures are in a 5cm container - simply rinse gel and plant.

In ideal conditions, shelf life will be approx 4 weeks.

Basic care instructions:

• Do not remove lid or contamination will occur.
• Keep in a well-lit area.
• Storage temperature should not exceed 30°C.

Each pot is 50mm in diameter and packed full of healthy plants.