Alternanthera Lilacina

Alternanthera lilacina

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Caryophyllales›Amaranthaceae

📍 South America

Alternanthera lilacina is a vibrant stem plant prized for its striking purple-to-lilac coloration on the undersides of its leaves, which intensifies under high light. It features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and a compact growth habit, making it ideal for creating colorful midground focal points in planted aquariums.

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Compatible Livestock

Amano Shrimp

Non-destructive algae eaters that won't uproot or damage stems

excellent

Ember Tetra

Small, peaceful fish that won't disturb plant roots or stems

excellent

Dwarf Gourami

Peaceful mid-water swimmer that coexists well with stem plants

good

Otocinclus

Algae-eating bottom dweller that won't damage plant tissue

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Gentle foragers that help control algae without harming plants

excellent

Common Diseases

Melt / Transition Shock

Symptoms

Leaves become translucent, mushy, or dissolve within days of planting; stems soften and collapse

Treatment

Ensure gradual acclimation to tank conditions; maintain stable water parameters; increase light and CO2 gradually; trim affected portions and allow new growth

Iron Deficiency

Symptoms

Yellowing of new leaves while veins remain green (interveinal chlorosis); stunted growth; pale coloration loss

Treatment

Dose liquid iron fertilizer (chelated iron) 1-2x weekly; ensure adequate lighting and CO2 to support nutrient uptake; check pH (iron availability decreases above pH 7.5)

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced photosynthesis; plant appears dull

Treatment

Increase water flow around plant; reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours; perform manual removal; add algae-eating fauna (Amano shrimp, Otocinclus); reduce excess nutrients

Nutrient Deficiency (Macronutrient)

Symptoms

Slow growth; pale or yellowing leaves; weak stems; loss of purple coloration

Treatment

Dose comprehensive liquid fertilizer containing NPK; add root tabs if using inert substrate; ensure adequate lighting and CO2 to maximize nutrient utilization

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Quick Facts

co2: recommended
lighting: high
placement: midground
substrate: Root feeder; benefits from nutrient-rich aquasoil or gravel with fertilizer tabs; regular liquid fertilization recommended
growth rate: medium

Water it likes

ph: 6.0-7.5
ammonia: 0 ppm
nitrate: <20 ppm
hardness: 2-8 dGH
temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

Legality

No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.