Description
Plant Profile
Alternanthera Reineckii ‘Green’, widely known in the hobby as AR Green, is a unique and captivating color variation of the iconic red stem plant native to the rivers and wetlands of Central and South America. Featuring vibrant ruby-red central stems lined with soft lime-green leaves that reveal glowing pink undersides, this species offers a breathtaking bi-color contrast in planted aquariums. Reaching 4 to 12 inches in height, its compact upright growth makes it an exceptional choice for midground groupings and Dutch-style plant streets, where the subtle pink undertones add depth and warmth alongside green and deep-red neighbors.
Key Features & Benefits
Unique dual-tone foliage combines soft green upper leaf surfaces with bright pink undersides and magenta stems.
Moderate-growing stem habit easily forms dense, compact midground bushes when routinely pruned.
Hardy and adaptable species providing ideal shelter and coverage for shy fish and aquatic shrimp.
Care & Planting Instructions
Remove lead weight surrounding the root base, then strip lower leaf tips so bare stems anchor cleanly into soil without rotting.
Use fine-tip pinsettes to insert individual stems 1 to 2 inches deep into aquarium soil.
Provide medium-to-high lighting and pressurized CO2 injection; consistent fertilization rich in iron and micronutrients intensifies pink leaf undersides and prevents leaf deformation. See our guide to growing red aquarium plants.
Maintain stable water parameters and avoid sudden parameter swings to prevent stem melting or leaf shedding.
To propagate, trim main stem tops with sharp straight shears and replant the trimmings directly into the substrate. Read our trimming & propagation guide for details.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
Attribute
Specification
Scientific Name
Alternanthera reineckii ‘Green’
Common Name(s)
Alternanthera Reineckii Green, AR Green
Family
Amaranthaceae
Plant Type / Taxonomy
Stem Plant
Care Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Light Requirement
Medium to High
CO2 Requirement
Required (Essential for leaf density and pink undersides)
Placement / Usage
Midground / Dutch Streets
Height / Size
4–12”+
Growth Rate
Moderate to Fast
Water Parameters
pH 6.5–7.5
Propagation Method
Cuttings (Cut stem tops or lateral shoots and replant)
Origin
Central & South America
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I prep bunched Alternanthera Reineckii Green before planting?
Remove the lead weight or metal band along with the foam wrap surrounding the lower roots. Inspect the base of the stems, gently rinse away any debris in room-temperature water, and snip off any bruised stem bases before inserting individual shoots into substrate using pinsettes.
2. How do I enhance the pink undersides of Alternanthera Reineckii Green?
While the upper surface of AR Green remains soft green, maintaining medium-to-high light levels, pressurized CO2, and regular dosing of iron-rich micro-fertilizers will turn the undersides of the leaves a vivid, glowing pink.
3. Why are the lower leaves on my AR Green curling or dropping off?
Lower leaf curling or loss is often caused by insufficient light reaching the base of the stems or a deficiency in key nutrients like iron or calcium. Space individual stems 1 inch apart when planting to ensure light reaches the lower foliage.
