Figleaf Alternanthera

Alternanthera ficoidea

Family : Amaranthaceae

PlantFreshwaterstem plant

Stem plant with variegated leaves in green, pink and red, very decorative in the aquarium.

Figleaf Alternanthera — photo 1 sur 4 — J.M.Garg · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.01 / 4

Popularity

Stem plant

fast growing, needs trimming

Availability

Common in shops

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Biotope

South America

Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

Alternanthera ficoidea is distinguished by its elliptic leaves with colorful patterns (green, cream, pink, red). Stems are erect and branched. It reaches 20-30 cm in height. Color is more intense under strong lighting and with iron supplementation. It grows moderately fast and requires regular pruning. Lower leaves may yellow if light is low.

Habitat

Region :

Wetlands, riverbanks

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature22–28 °C

pH6–7.5

GH2–12 °dGH

KH1–5 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 20 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 2 mg/L

CO₂

≤ 30 mg/L

Light

High

Care

Difficulty

3/5

Diet

Photosynthetic

Min. tank

20 L

Min. group

Adult size

30 cm

Lifespan

3 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

Cuttings

Care notes

Parameters: temperature 22-28°C, pH 6-7.5, GH 2-12, KH 1-5. Moderate to high lighting (0.5-1 W/L). CO2 recommended. Iron-rich fertilizer to maintain colors. Regular pruning to encourage branching. Compatible with peaceful fish. Minimum tank volume 20 L. Avoid burrowing fish.

Track this species in your tank