Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosanervig' - Cup

Alternanthera reineckii 'Rosanervig' is one of the easiest and most rewarding red stem plants for the planted aquarium. Its rosy pink to red leaves are crossed by striking light pink veins, a signature look that pops against green plants and dark hardscape. More forgiving than most red plants, it shows color even in moderate light and rewards extra light and CO2 with deep, vivid tones. 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. The brighter the light, the deeper and redder the color.
• CO2: Recommended for the best color and compact 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

A group of Rosanervig makes a bold splash of red in the midground or background, instantly adding depth and a focal point to a green scape. Plant it in clusters for the strongest impact, and trim regularly to keep a dense, bushy form. The light pink veins give it a finer, more detailed look up close than a solid red plant.

Pairs Well With

• Alternanthera reineckii 'Mini' for a low, compact red in the foreground to echo the color.
• Rotala Vietnam H'ra to blend warm orange-red tones nearby.
• Pogostemon erectus as a fine green backdrop that makes the red pop.
• Lindernia rotundifolia for a soft light-green contrast at the base.

FAQ

Do I need CO2 to grow Rosanervig?
No, but it helps. Rosanervig is one of the more forgiving red plants and will grow and show color in medium light without CO2. Adding CO2 and stronger light brings out its deepest reds.

How do I get the best red color?
Give it bright light, dose iron-rich fertilizer, and add root tabs. The more light and nutrients, the richer the red and the more defined the pink veins.

How do I make it bushy?
Trim the tops and replant the cuttings. Each trimmed 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.