Scientific Name: Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini'
Common Name: AR Mini, Mini Alternanthera
Origin: Cultivated variety of Alternanthera reineckii
Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Temperature: 22–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.5
GH: 2–12 dGH
KH: 0–8 dKH
Moderate to high lighting is recommended.
Strong lighting promotes compact growth and intense red to burgundy coloration.
Under low light, the plant may lose color and become less compact.
CO₂ supplementation is highly recommended.
Encourages dense growth, vibrant coloration, and healthy leaf development.
Without CO₂, growth tends to be slower and less compact.
Requires a steady supply of macro and micronutrients.
Benefits from regular dosing of nitrate, phosphate, potassium, and trace elements.
Iron supplementation helps enhance red coloration.
Consistent nutrient levels are important for maintaining healthy, compact growth.
Best suited for the foreground to midground.
Commonly used as a colorful accent plant or focal point.
Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller aquariums and detailed aquascapes.
Propagated through stem cuttings.
Cut healthy stems and replant them into the substrate.
Regular trimming encourages branching and denser growth.
Maintain stable CO₂, lighting, and nutrient levels for optimal coloration.
Trim regularly to preserve its compact, bushy appearance.
Avoid shading from taller plants to ensure adequate light reaches lower leaves.
Good water circulation helps reduce algae growth on the foliage.
Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini' is a compact and highly decorative stem plant prized for its deep red to burgundy leaves and low-growing habit. Its small size and intense coloration make it an excellent choice for creating contrast in the foreground and midground of planted aquariums. Widely used in Nature, Dutch, and Iwagumi-inspired layouts, it serves as a striking focal plant that adds depth, color, and visual impact to aquascapes.