Alternanthera reineckii ‘Florida Ruffle Variegated’

🌿 Introduction
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Florida Ruffle Variegated’ is a striking cultivar of the South American red stem plant family. Its ruffled leaf margins and cream-green variegation set it apart from classic AR forms, making it a true focal point in aquariums, terrariums, and paludariums. With proper care, it develops bold coloration and unique texture that enhances any layout.

🌱 Plant Profile

• Type: Stem plant

• Origin: Cultivar of Alternanthera reineckii (South America)

• Position: Midground to background

• Growth Rate: Medium

• Lighting: Medium to high

• CO₂: Recommended for compact form and vibrant colors

• Height / Spread: 8–16″ tall · 4–8″ spread

• Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5 · GH 3–10 · KH 1–5

✅ Care Summary

• Plant in clusters at the midground to background for height and visual contrast.

• Provide strong light and CO₂ to bring out deep reds and clear variegation.

• Trim regularly; replant cuttings to create dense groups.

• During transition from emersed to submerged growth, expect some melt — trim back old leaves early to encourage healthy submerged shoots.

• Also thrives in terrariums, paludariums, and hanging pots, where foliage can trail attractively in high humidity.

🌿 Q&A

Q: Is it difficult to switch from emersed to submerged growth?
A: It can be. Emersed leaves often melt, but with stable water, strong light, and CO₂, new submerged growth will replace them. Trimming damaged leaves early speeds recovery.

Q: Where should this plant be placed in the aquarium?
A: It is best suited for the midground to background, where its height and patterned foliage stand out against green plants.

Q: Can it be used outside of aquariums?
A: Yes — it thrives in terrariums, paludariums, and hanging pots, as long as humidity stays high and the substrate remains moist.

Q: Does it need CO₂ injection?
A: It will survive without, but CO₂ and strong light are recommended for compact growth, strong coloration, and faster adaptation after planting.

🌍 More About Alternanthera reineckii ‘Florida Ruffle Variegated’
Alternanthera reineckii originates from South America, where it grows along riverbanks, floodplains, and marshy edges. In these environments, the plant adapts to seasonal water changes — thriving submerged during floods and emersed when water levels recede. Its dense stands provide shelter for small fish, fry, and invertebrates, while contributing to the biodiversity of river margins.

The ‘Florida Ruffle Variegated’ cultivar was developed through selective cultivation, combining the vibrant coloration of AR with variegated striping and ruffled leaf texture. In aquariums it serves as a dramatic accent plant, while in terrariums and paludariums it mirrors its wild relatives by thriving in high humidity and moist soils. Its adaptability and unique appearance make it a favorite among aquascapers looking for something beyond the standard red stem plant.