Alternantera Minor

Alternanther Reineckii mini or Minor, scientific name Alternanthera reineckii “Mini”. It is a dwarf form of Alternanter Reineck pink, which forms compact brownish bushes. This is one of the few red-colored aquarium plants that, due to its size, can be used in the foreground. It only came to prominence in 2007. There is no reliable information about who bred this variety.

Outwardly, it is similar to other Reineck Alternanters, but differs in a modest height of no more than 20 cm and a small distance between leaf tiers, which makes the plant seem more “fluffy”. Many lateral shoots, formed from the mother plant, form a dense plant carpet as they grow. They grow slowly, from sprout to adult stage takes about 6 weeks. Mainly used in hobby home aquariums, popular in the Dutch style, however, almost never found in natural aquascaping and other destinations that come from Asia.

Growing requirements can be assessed as a medium level of difficulty. Alternantera Minor needs a good level of lighting, warm water and additional fertilizers, the introduction of carbon dioxide is also welcome. Under inappropriate conditions, the plant loses color, turning green.