Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini' - Tissue Culture

Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini': The Dwarf Red Accent Plant

The Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini', or Miniature Alternanthera, is a popular, cultivated dwarf variant of the well-known South American stem plant/tissue culture. It is highly sought after by aquascapers for its intense, vibrant coloration, which ranges from deep red and purple to magenta, particularly on the undersides of the leaves. This plant is a favorite for creating a powerful color contrast against the greens typically found in a planted tank.

Unlike its taller parent species (Alternanthera reineckii), the 'Mini' variety tissue culture exhibits a more compact growth habit, making it an excellent choice for nano tanks or as a foreground or midground accent in larger aquariums. It typically achieves a manageable height of 4 to 10 cm (1.5 to 4 inches) when trimmed regularly, though it can grow up to 20 cm (8 inches) if left untrimmed. Its ability to be pruned into a dense, low-growing bush or carpet makes it a staple in Dutch-style aquascapes.

While often categorized as an easy-to-moderate plant, achieving its signature, brilliant red color requires medium to high light intensity, a nutrient-rich substrate, and consistent access to key nutrients like Iron and Potassium. Stability is crucial; it is known to "melt" when subjected to unstable water parameters or frequent uprooting.

Care & Propagation:

• Lighting: Requires Medium to High light (40+ PAR is recommended). High light intensity is the single most important factor for developing and maintaining the deep red/crimson coloration. If lighting is insufficient, the plant will become pale or leggy and lose its intense color.
• CO2: Recommended for optimal color and compact growth. While it can grow without CO2 injection (low-tech), supplementation (15-30 mg/L) drastically improves the growth rate, overall health, and especially the vibrancy of the red hues.
• Substrate & Fertilization: A Nutrient-Rich Substrate (e.g., aquasoil) is highly recommended as this plant feeds heavily from its roots. Supplementation with root tabs and liquid fertilizers, particularly those rich in Iron (Fe) and Potassium (K), is essential to prevent yellowing/chlorosis and ensure maximum color saturation.
• Water Parameters: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.0–7.0 and soft to moderately hard water. Stable tropical temperatures between 22-28 °C (72-82 °F) are ideal.
• Propagation: Easy via Stem Cuttings. Simply trim a healthy stem and replant the tip into the substrate. Frequent trimming encourages lateral side shoots, resulting in a denser, bushier appearance.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini'
• Primary Common Name: Miniature Alternanthera
• Other Common Names: AR Mini, Mini Parrot Leaf
• Origin: Cultivar (Original species from South America)
• Max Height: 5–20 cm (2–8 inches)
• Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
• Placement: Foreground, Midground, Accent
• Light Demand: Medium to High
• CO2 Requirement: Medium (Highly Recommended for best color)
• Care Difficulty: Medium