Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosaefolia' - Cup

Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosaefolia' is the classic, vigorous red stem plant often sold as Scarlet Temple. Its lance-shaped leaves show olive to bronze tops over rich magenta and purple-red undersides, building a bold, full splash of color in the midground or background. One of the easier and faster red plants to grow, it rewards strong light and CO2 with intense color while still doing well in moderate setups. It arrives as a clean tissue-culture cup, grown in vitro and free of snails, algae, and pesticides, with several healthy stems to plant. Browse the rest of our freshwater aquarium plants.

Why Tissue Culture

Tissue-culture plants are propagated in a sterile lab and sold in a sealed cup of nutrient gel. That means no hitchhiking pest snails, no nuisance algae, and no pesticide residue, so it is completely safe for shrimp, fry, and sensitive invertebrates. Rinse the gel off under dechlorinated water, separate the stems, and plant them for clean, healthy growth.

Care Guide

• Light: Medium to high. Stronger light deepens the magenta and red and keeps growth compact.
• CO2: Recommended for the richest color and fastest growth, though it will still grow without it in softer tones.
• Substrate: Roots into any nutrient-rich planted substrate. Root tabs and iron-rich fertilizer intensify the reds.
• Planting: Separate the stems and push each into the substrate an inch or two apart. Trim and replant the tops to build a fuller stand.

Specifications

In the Aquascape

Rosaefolia is the go-to red for adding drama and depth. A planted group reads as a bold red bush against green plants and wood, drawing the eye and creating contrast. Plant it in clusters of several stems, keep it well lit, and trim the tops regularly to encourage a dense, branching form. As a taller, vigorous variety it shines in the mid to back of larger scapes.

Pairs Well With

• Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosanervig' for a pink-veined red with a finer look beside it.
• Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini' as a low, compact red echo in the foreground.
• Pogostemon erectus as a fine green backdrop that makes the red pop.
• Bacopa Monnieri for an upright green contrast in the background.

FAQ

What is the difference between Rosaefolia and Rosanervig?
Rosaefolia is the larger, more vigorous classic red Alternanthera, also called Scarlet Temple, with magenta undersides. Rosanervig is a more compact form known for its light pink leaf veins.

Do I need CO2 to grow it?
No, but it helps. Rosaefolia grows and shows color in medium light without CO2, while CO2 and strong light bring out its deepest reds and fastest growth.

How do I make it bushy?
Trim the tops and replant the cuttings. Each cut stem branches, quickly filling in a dense red stand.

Is it safe for shrimp and fry?
Yes. Tissue-culture plants are grown without pesticides and arrive free of pests, so they are completely safe for shrimp, fry, and other sensitive invertebrates.