Scarlet Temple (Alternanthera Reineckii) is a striking freshwater aquarium plant known for its intense red, burgundy, and purple tones. This colorful stem plant is a favorite among aquascapers looking to add bold contrast and depth to planted tanks.
With proper lighting and nutrients, Scarlet Temple develops rich coloration and bushy growth, making it an excellent midground or background feature plant. It is hardy, adaptable, and suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
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Key Features
Vibrant Red & Purple Foliage
Deep red and violet leaves create dramatic contrast in aquascapes.
Fast-Growing Stem Plant
Develops multiple side shoots when trimmed, forming dense clusters.
Excellent Visual Impact
Adds bold color and dimension to planted tanks.
Adaptable & Hardy
Thrives in a wide range of freshwater conditions.
Beginner-Friendly
Easy to maintain with basic lighting and fertilization.
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Benefits
Scarlet Temple enhances aquariums by adding intense color while also improving water quality. As a fast-growing plant, it absorbs excess nutrients, helping reduce algae growth and stabilize tank conditions. Its dense foliage provides shelter for fish and invertebrates, making it both functional and beautiful.
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Care Guide
Light
Moderate to high lighting for best coloration.
Water Temperature
68–82°F (20–28°C)
Placement
Midground to background
Substrate
Plant stems directly into nutrient-rich substrate.
CO₂
Not required, but improves growth and color.
Growth Rate
Medium to fast
Maintenance Level
Easy
Trim regularly to encourage bushy growth.
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How to Plant
Rinse stems gently before planting.
Remove lower leaves from each stem.
Insert stems 1–2 inches into substrate.
Space stems slightly apart for better spread.
Trim tops and replant cuttings for thicker growth.
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Perfect For
• Freshwater aquariums
• Red-themed aquascapes
• Beginner planted tanks
• Midground and background layouts
• Community tanks
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Why Choose Scarlet Temple?
• Rich red and purple coloration
• Easy to grow and propagate
• Enhances water quality naturally
• Provides shelter for fish
• High visual impact with minimal effort
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Quality Assurance
• Healthy, farm-grown plants
• Inspected before shipping
• Shipped fresh and ready to plant
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Live Arrival Guarantee
Your plant is protected by our Live Arrival Guarantee.
If it arrives damaged or unhealthy, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with photos for a replacement or refund.
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Important Notes
• Color intensity depends on lighting and nutrients
• Initial leaf melt is normal during adjustment
• Live plants naturally vary in size and shade
🌱 Care & Resources
Browse more: Stem Plants · All Aquarium Plants
📖 Care guides: Stem Plants: Essential Guide for Aquarium Success · Rotala: A Splash of Color for Your Aquarium
Frequently Asked Questions
Moderately easy. The standard Alternanthera Reineckii grows well in medium light without CO2, producing pink-red leaves. It’s a good entry point into colorful plants. The ‘Mini’ and ‘Rosanervig’ varieties are harder and benefit from CO2.
Increase light intensity, dose iron-rich fertilizer weekly, and consider CO2 injection. Slightly limiting nitrates (keep under 10 ppm) also enhances red pigmentation. The plant produces its most vivid color under high light with CO2.
Yes, AR is a stem plant that must be planted in substrate. Use nutrient-rich aqua soil or add root tabs to inert substrate. The stems root at nodes and grow upward. Trim and replant the tops for bushier growth.
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