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PlanthardFreshwater

Alternanthera Reineckii Purple

Alternanthera reineckii Purple

Also known as AR Purple, Purple Scarlet Temple

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Caryophyllales›Amaranthaceae

Alternanthera reineckii Purple is a vibrant stem plant prized for its deep purple to reddish coloration on the undersides of its narrow, lance-shaped leaves. This mid-ground plant exhibits striking color intensity under high lighting and CO2 supplementation, making it a popular choice for aquascapers seeking dramatic visual contrast. Its compact growth habit and vivid hues make it ideal for creating focal points in planted aquariums.

Where it's from

Native to Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Bolivia, Brazil North, Brazil Northeast, Brazil South and 4 more

At a glance

CO₂: required
Growth: Medium
Placement: midground
Temp: 72–82°F; 22–28°C
pH: 6.0-7.5
GH: 36–143 ppm; 2–8 dGH

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Compatible livestock

See all 5

Amano Shrimp

Peaceful algae eater that won't uproot or damage delicate stems

excellent

Cardinal Tetra

Small, non-destructive schooling fish that complements planted tanks

excellent

Otocinclus

Gentle algae grazer that helps maintain plant health without harming leaves

good

Red Cherry Shrimp

Peaceful invertebrate that won't disturb substrate or stems

excellent

Rotala Butterfly

Complementary stem plant that pairs well aesthetically in high-tech setups

excellent

Member photos

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Common diseases 4Melt / Transition Shock, Iron Deficiency (Chlorosis), Algae Overgrowth on Leaves, Nutrient Deficiency (Macros/Micros)

Melt / Transition Shock

Symptoms

Leaves become translucent, mushy, or dissolve; stems turn soft and collapse

Treatment

Ensure stable water parameters (pH, temperature, hardness); gradually acclimate plant to new tank conditions; maintain high CO2 and lighting; trim affected portions and allow new growth

Iron Deficiency (Chlorosis)

Symptoms

Yellowing of new leaves while veins remain green; stunted growth; pale coloration instead of vibrant purple

Treatment

Dose liquid iron fertilizer (chelated iron) 2-3 times weekly; ensure adequate lighting and CO2 to support nutrient uptake; check that substrate contains iron-rich components

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

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

Treatment

Increase water circulation and reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours daily; add algae-eating fauna (Amano shrimp, Otocinclus); manually remove affected leaves; maintain nutrient balance to prevent algae blooms

Nutrient Deficiency (Macros/Micros)

Symptoms

Slow or stunted growth; pale or yellowing leaves; loss of purple coloration; leaf curling or deformation

Treatment

Dose comprehensive fertilizer containing NPK and trace elements (iron, boron, manganese) 2-3 times weekly; perform 30-50% water changes weekly to replenish nutrients; ensure substrate fertility

Legality

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP) (CC BY 4.0).