Alternanthera brasiliensis herbaceous plants for open ground. Sweet Alternanthera: description, care, reproduction

Latin name: Alternanthera.

Family: amaranthaceae (Amaranthaceae).

Homeland: tropics and subtropics of America, Africa, Asia, Australia.

Form: perennial herbaceous or subshrub plant.

Description

Alternanthera is a perennial herbaceous or subshrub plant. Plant height is up to 25 cm. Alternanthera stems are fragile, branch strongly, forming a spreading bush. The leaves are opposite, small, lanceolate. The color of the leaves is very diverse and constitutes the main decorative value of the plant. In the light, the color of the leaves becomes brighter and more intense. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, located in the axils of the leaves, collected in capitate or spike-shaped inflorescences.

About 200 species of alternanthera are known, and there is still a lot of confusion among the species names. Some species grow exclusively in water and are of interest only to aquarists. The main types of alternanthera used in landscape design, have numerous varieties and forms.

Alternanthera Betzick (A. bettzickiana). Homeland - Brazil. Height up to 15 cm (sometimes up to 20 cm). The stems grow vertically, pubescent at the base. The leaves are spatulate, pointed at the ends. The color of the leaves is two-sided: olive-green on top, yellow-red spotted below.

Alternanthera serratus (A. denticulata). Homeland - South America. Height up to 35 cm. Stems are straight, branched. The leaves are linear, narrow, 3 cm long. The color of the leaves depends on the variety.

Alternanthera is lovely, oralternanthera dear (A. amoena). Homeland - Brazil. Height 10-20 cm. Stems are strongly branched from the base, pubescent below, furrowed. The leaves are oblong, lanceolate, pubescent below, with bright red petioles. The color is green-red-orange.

Alternanthera versicolor (A. versicolor). Homeland - Brazil. According to some opinions, it is a type of Betzick's alternanthera. Height up to 15 cm. Strongly branched stems form spreading bushes. Young shoots are pubescent. The leaves are wide, oblong, spatulate, tapering towards the petiole, wrinkled, blunt-pointed, shiny. The color is variegated green-red-pink.

Alternanthera sessile (A. sessilis) is of tropical origin and grows along the banks of water bodies. The length of the stems is 20-50 cm. It spreads by rhizomes and takes root by stems. Thus, a decorative mat is formed along the shore and surface of the reservoir. The leaves are opposite, narrow, and the color ranges from bright green to beet green, depending on lighting conditions.

Growing conditions

In order for the alternanthera leaves to be colored as intensely as possible, the plant should be planted in the sunniest part of the garden. Alternanthera needs warmth; it does not tolerate frost. It prefers calcareous, nutritious soils, but can also grow on neutral soil. Moderate humidity is required.

Application

To decorate a site, alternanthera is most often used as an annual decorative foliage plant, without bothering with the hassle of transplanting it into a greenhouse for the winter.

Alternanthera is the star of carpet floriculture. Its low growth, excellent tolerance to haircuts, and most importantly, a huge variety of colors allow this plant to be used for carpets. flower beds, borders, alpine slides, floral drawings, figured compositions. With the help of a competent haircut, you can give the alternanthera an ovoid, spherical, comb-like shape.

Alternanthera sessile is used to decorate small reservoirs. In summer it is planted on the bottom in shallow places or along marshy banks.

Care

Alternanthera is very thermophilic, so in winter mother plants are transferred from the street to bright greenhouses with a temperature of +12 - +16. Plants that overwinter outside in relatively warm climates still need shelter. Alternanthera is replanted back into the ground only after spring frosts. If night frosts are possible in summer, the plant also needs to be covered.

Alternanthera requires moderate regular watering all year round. It is not allowed to water with cold water. It is not necessary to spray the plant.

The main care activity that an alternanter requires is regular, literally weekly haircuts. Thanks to this procedure, the plant bushes strongly, develops many additional leaves and becomes fully decorative.

Alternanthera sessile is placed in containers at the bottom of the reservoir to a depth of 50 cm. It is necessary to limit its spreading and take it away for the winter in time. Overwinters in a cool room.

Reproduction

Alternanthera propagates by dividing old plants and cuttings. When propagated by division, long roots can be cut off without harming the plant. The planted plants should initially be in a bright and warm place. When propagated by cuttings, the planted alternanthera is first kept under a transparent bag in a very warm place. When young leaves appear on the plant, the bag can be removed.

Diseases and pests

Alternanthera is resistant to diseases and pests. Potential problems include gray mold, aphids, spider mites and whiteflies.

Popular varieties

Varieties and forms of Betzick's alternanthera

‘Aurea’ (‘Golden’)- a plant with large yellowish leaves.

‘Juvel’- large-leaved, tall alternanthera with carmine-red leaves.

‘Kuntzii’ (‘Kuntzi’)- a plant with densely arranged yellow leaves, dull green at the base.

‘Paronychioides’ (‘Barbed’)- low-growing alternanthera with curly pinkish-red leaves.

Varieties and forms of alternanthera serratus

‘Purple Knight’- tall (up to 50 cm) alternanthera with dark purple leaves.

‘Royal Tapestry’- alternanthera with leaves of red, copper-red, purple and burgundy shades.

Varieties and forms of Alternanthera charming

‘Amabilis’ (‘Excellent’)- a plant with olive-green leaves with red spots.

‘Rosea’ (‘Pink’)- low-growing alternanthera with pinkish-red leaves with an orange tint.

‘Ficoidea’ (‘Fig’)- a plant with leaves of pink-violet-green color.

'Metallica'- tall, large-leaved alternanthera with dark brown leaves with a purple tint.

Varieties and forms of alternanthera variegated

‘Aurea’ (‘Golden’)- alternanthera with golden yellow leaves.

‘Tricolor’ (‘Tricolor’)- a plant with green-pinkish-red leaves.

Varieties and forms of alternanthera sessile

‘Rubra’ (‘Purple’)- Alternanthera purpurea has pink-red leaves.

• Name: from the Latin "altemans" - volatile, which is explained by the polymorphism of many species. Description: genus has about 200 species, distributed in the tropics and subtropics of America, Africa, Asia and Australia. Perennial herbaceous or semi-shrub plants used as annual decorative deciduous plants. The flowers are small, inconspicuous and have no decorative value. Used to decorate ponds Alternanter sedentary (Alternanthera sessilis). Other species, due to their decorative significance, are considered the main crop among carpet plants. They are distinguished by significant diversity in color, pattern and shape of leaves. They grow in the form of low, spreading bushes up to 25 cm tall. After shearing, they bush a lot. There is a lot of confusion among species names, which has not yet been resolved. Alternanthera dear- Alternanthera amoena Voss Homeland - Brazil. Perennial low-growing plant 10-20 cm tall. The stems are furrowed, branching from the base, pubescent below. The leaves are oblong-oval or narrowly elliptical, pubescent below. Their color consists of combinations of green, red and orange. The flowers are small, filmy, in undecorative dense, sessile inflorescences at the ends of the shoots. According to Bailey, this species can include alternanthera, which are found under the names: “amabilis”, “spectabilis”, “sessilis”, “rosea”, “rheinhardii”, “metalica”. Some authors f. amabilis is considered a separate species alternanthera pleasant- A. amabilis Lem. They all differ in the shape and color of the leaves, mostly pink-red or bright orange. Photo by Mikhail Polotnov Alternaitera Betzik- Alternanthera bettzickiana Voss Homeland - Brazil. Perennial herbaceous or semi-shrub plants up to 15 cm tall, growing vertically, pubescent at the base. The leaves are spatulate with pointed ends, variegated, olive green with yellowish-white, reddish and white spots. Flower heads are located at the ends of stems or in the axils of leaves. This species has many varieties or forms with green, yellow and red leaf colors, The most common: f. aurea- with yellow leaves; f. paronychioides- with olive-red leaves; var. spathulata- with dark red leaves and stems; forms ( nana, compacta, magnifica, versicolor), as well as the typical form - var. typica Regel(more often called alternanthera barbed - A. paronychioides hort.) A compact bush up to 15 cm tall with rounded-lobed or oval leaves, slightly wavy along the edge and multi-colored. On the same plant there are green, light yellow, red, pink or variegated. According to Bailey, this may include: “picta”, “tricolor”, “aurea”, “paranichyoides”, “Juvel”, etc. For practical purposes, all types and forms of alternanthers are combined into four groups: Large-leaved, tall. For example, "Juvel" is the most beautiful among large-leaved forms. Some of the leaves, especially the upper ones, are carmine-red in color; "atropurpurea" (f. metalica) - leaves are almost dark brown. Narrow-leaved, low-growing. For example, A. amoena f. rosea is a low-growing alternanthera with carmine-red leaves, one of the best in this group. Narrow-leaved and curly-leaved. For example, A. paranychioi-des papa compacta - leaves are mostly brown with a red tint, height up to 10 cm; A. r. aurea major ("chroma-tclla") - bronze-yellow leaves; A. r. aurea papa - leaves are canary yellow with an admixture of green. Broad-leaved and triangular-leaved. For example, A. versicolor has shiny dark purple leaves with pink-red and white spots. This species has vigorous growth and is sensitive to cold weather. Location: sunny The soil: prefer neutral, medium-moist soils. Reproduction: All of them reproduce well and quickly by cuttings in a breeding greenhouse at a fairly high temperature. Rooting sometimes occurs already on the third day, usually on 8-10; cuttings need shade. After rooting, the cuttings are planted in 7 cm pots, one at a time, and taken to warm greenhouses, where they are kept throughout April. 5-10 days before releasing the seedlings, the plants are hardened off by ventilating the greenhouses and removing the frames. At this time, the plants acquire a characteristic leaf color. Care: All alternanters cannot tolerate temperatures falling below 0°C. Planting in place is carried out after the end of spring frosts at a distance of 6-8 cm. Care consists of maintaining a certain height by pruning, watering and weeding of weeds, while within a short period a smooth, colorful carpet is formed. The color of the leaves under the influence of the sun becomes more intense and spectacular. Easily tolerates haircuts. Queen plants overwinter in bright greenhouses, near glass, at a temperature of 10-12°C. During the winter period, they almost do not shed their leaves, only their color noticeably fades. Usage: Thanks to their painted leaves and low growth, they are indispensable plants for arranging carpet beds and figured compositions.

plants - Aquatic alternanters

The genus Alternanthera belongs to the Amaranthaceae family and includes about 200 species of perennial herbaceous or subshrub plants. The stems of the plant are fragile, highly branched. The leaves are opposite, lanceolate, and small in size. The color of the leaves differs among different species; they can be yellow, red, or variegated. If the plant grows in bright light, the color of the leaves becomes more intense.

Alternanthera flowers are small and inconspicuous, located in the axils of the leaves in the form of capitate or spike-shaped inflorescences. At home, the plant rarely blooms.

Many Alternanthera species are grown at home or in the garden, and some semi-aquatic varieties are suitable as aquarium plants. Garden species are used as annual ornamental plants; when wintering indoors, they can grow for several years.

Growing

Alternanthera is a heat-loving plant. Species growing outside in winter need to be moved to a greenhouse with a temperature of at least +12°C.

The plant requires weekly pruning of shoots, then it does not spread across the ground, but forms a large number of additional shoots and leaves, becoming more decorative.

When growing Alternanthera indoors, it can be kept outdoors in the summer.

Most aquarium species of Alternanthera do not develop well when completely immersed in water, since in nature they are semi-aquatic and marsh plants. Therefore, it is recommended to grow them in an aquarium on special side shelves or in containers placed on the bottom. The water in the aquarium needs to be changed partly.

Diseases and pests

Gray mold, aphids, spider mites, whiteflies.

Reproduction

Seeds and vegetatively, cuttings.

First steps after purchase

Alternanthera rarely suffers from diseases or pests, however, the purchased plant must be quarantined for two weeks to identify diseases or pests.

Before planting in the aquarium, aquarium species are carefully inspected and damaged parts are removed.

Secrets of success

Alternanthera grow well in bright sunlight - the brighter the lighting, the richer the color of the leaves and the more decorative the plant. Alternanthera tolerates even direct sunlight well. The temperature in summer should be about +25°C, in winter – not lower than +10°C. The plant is thermophilic and does not tolerate drafts or hypothermia.

Moderate watering is recommended, more abundant in summer than in winter. It is not advisable to allow the earthen clod to dry out. Plants are watered only with warm water. Plants do not need spraying, but the leaves must be periodically wiped from dust.

Alternanthera is replanted as the plant grows, preferably in spring or autumn.

Possible difficulties

Pale leaves, elongated stem

Reasons: 1) lack of lighting.

Leaves lose their decorative effect and become monochromatic

Reason: 1) lack of light, 2) excess nitrogen in the soil.

The appearance of gray mold

Reasons: 1) Excessive humidity, 2) overwatering of the plant.

Alternanthera phycoidea is a spectacular and beautiful plant with two-color leaves, which is valued precisely because of them.

Reproduction of alternanthera

Over time, the alternanthera ceases to be attractive, so it is not grown at home for several years. On adult alternanthera, the stems become much longer, but the leaves become fewer and fewer. Therefore, every year cuttings are cut from the top of the plant, from which new beautiful plants are grown. Cuttings are the only effective way to propagate this plant.

Cuttings from the top of the alternanthera can be taken at any time of the year. They need to be rooted in universal soil for indoor plants at a temperature of about 21 degrees. The cut apical cuttings go deep into the soil to the very bottom leaf. For faster rooting, the container with the planted cuttings should be covered with a transparent film.

The completion of rooting is indicated by the appearance of new leaves. Until this time, the plant needs to be protected from bright sunlight; when the alternanthera takes root, it can be moved to a brighter place.

Alternanthera: growth pattern

Usually this plant reaches a height of no more than 30 centimeters, and the same in diameter. The stems of the plants are densely dotted with leaves, the edges of which are curled up. Their length can be up to 6 cm. The pure form of Alternanthera phycoidea has green leaves, but you just have to limit watering and fertilizing, and all the leaves will become multi-colored.

Alternanthera: care features

To ensure that the plant always maintains its compact bushy shape, its stems must be regularly pinched and trimmed.

Alternanthera phycoidea feels best in a well-lit place. The most suitable soil for it is permeable compost soil. This plant does not tolerate winter very well, so it is practically not grown as a perennial plant.

In order for the alternanthera leaves to become multi-colored, you need to let the soil dry out and only then water it. But you should be very careful: if the soil dries out too much, the plant may wither.

The plant should be sprayed regularly, preferably with warm water. If grown as an annual plant, Alternanthera phycoidea will not need feeding.

In order for the color of the leaves to become saturated, it must be placed in a well-lit place, but protected from direct sunlight.

In summer, alternanthera feels good at room temperature, in winter – 15-17 degrees.

Possible problems

If the alternanthera is illuminated by bright sunlight, even spots will appear on its leaves, especially if the plant was sprayed with water before. It should be in a bright place, but needs protection from bright sun.

Loss of leaf color intensity is the result of insufficient lighting, excessive feeding or excessive watering. In this case, the alternaner needs to be placed in a bright place, stop feeding and limit watering.

Alternanthera belongs to the amaranth family Amaranthaceae, which is considered to be native to South America and Brazil. It includes about 850 species, most of which grow in subtropical and tropical forests. Some specimens grow well in Africa. The plant is a perennial or annual herb, but there are also shrubs and vines. For example, evergreen trees grow in Hawaii. Succulents can be found in the Namib Desert.

This is a plant with pink-red leaves, the shoots of which grow up to several meters. The leaves are arranged alternately, treeless small flowers are collected in complex inflorescences in the form of brushes or panicles. Most species are pollinated by bees. The fruits are shaped like a nut, sometimes a berry with lens-shaped seeds.

It is worth noting that plants of the amaranth genus love light, it is important to grow them in open areas. The plant is considered an aquarium plant; species with luxurious flowers and luxurious green mass are popular. The leaves are colored purple, light pink, orange or scarlet. At the same time, color saturation depends on the amount of light. In well-lit areas they have a bright, rich color. In conditions of lack of light or insufficient light, the leaves are green.

The flower feels good in areas with high air humidity. These include the banks of reservoirs. But sometimes there are specimens that develop well in hot climates.

In warm climates, it is grown all year round. In countries with harsh winters, the plant is cultivated as an annual.

Kinds

It is worth noting that there are about 20 varieties of plants in the world that decorate flower beds, rockeries, and gardens. If desired, you can purchase species that are used in the aquarium.

Sweet Alternanthera (Alternanthera amoena)

A low-growing plant, a perennial no more than 20 cm high with strongly branching stems from the root, pubescent below. The shoots have oblong oval leaves in the form of an ellipse. A special feature of this species is its luxurious coloring, which combines orange, red and green shades. The small flowers at the ends of the branches delight the eye. In summer, plants are grown in the sun, they tolerate high temperatures, and in winter they feel good at + 15 degrees.

In the warm season, Alternanthera responds well to mineral and organic fertilizers. Propagated by cuttings. You need to water with moderately warm water. Transplantation is carried out as needed. With the arrival of spring, the crop is propagated by dividing the mother plant or by cuttings. Cuttings can be immediately planted in the ground, but to create greenhouse conditions they are covered with a jar or cut bottle. After some time, the cuttings take root. With the appearance of the first leaves, the cover is removed. This species looks great with low-growing plants.

The flower grows greatly and loses its shape. To ensure that exotic plants do not lose their decorative properties, it is important to trim the shoots in a timely manner.

The bush is attacked by gray rot, aphids or spider mites. It is worth paying attention to the condition of the green mass in time. When spots appear on the leaves, whitish cobwebs, or decreased turgor in the leaves, it is important to treat the crown of the plant with special preparations.

Sessile (Alternanthera sessilis)

The view is in demand. A low crop with long stems about 20 cm, which spread along the soil. More often it is planted near ponds and lakes, areas with high humidity. Leaves of a unique burgundy color create a flaming carpet on the water surface. Plants can be planted in soil or a container. They are easy to care for and adapt to various growing conditions. The root system is poorly developed; any substrate is suitable for growth. Grows quickly in sandy soil. This species is propagated by cuttings. During the care process, long stems are regularly shortened and the tops are pinched. The plucked part is planted in the ground and watered regularly. After a few days, the plant takes root. It is also convenient to propagate Alternanthera by cuttings. The long stem is cut into several parts. Each cutting should have three buds. Individual parts are planted.

In an aquarium, the flower will not feel good for long, about a month. Then it is transferred to the ground, where the plant develops, forming aerial shoots. The species grown in above-ground soil tolerates flooding without problems. In addition, it is convenient to plant it from an aquarium to terrestrial conditions, where it adapts without difficulty.

Variegated (Alternanthera versicolor)

A unique play of shades can be observed when growing a member of the amaranth family - Alternanthera multi-colored, the lush spreading vegetation shimmers with green-red lights. This is a low perennial shrub with long stems; sparse pubescence is visible on young shoots. Brazil is considered the birthplace of the plant, so this species grows well on sunny windowsills or in a greenhouse. During the winter season, it is important not to allow the temperature to drop below 0 degrees. In addition, the full development of exotic plants is acceptable at high air humidity.

In spring, it is important to pinch the shoots in a timely manner.

Propagated by division of roots. In summer, fertilize once every 14 days with mineral or organic fertilizers.

Betzikiana (Alternanthera ficoidea)

A bright representative of its genus, distinguished by the presence of rich color on both sides of the foliage. The uniqueness of this species is the color of the green mass. On the lower surface of the leaves you can see yellow-red spots, the front side is a beautiful olive color. In the wild, the plant thrives in the waters of South America. This is a perennial that requires increased care and maintenance of a sufficient percentage of humidity. The bush grows up to 15 cm high, flower heads appear in the axils of the leaves. There are some varieties with yellow or red coloring of the herbaceous mass. Can be planted in an aquarium with bright lighting. It is important to ensure that algae does not become entangled in the leaves. Otherwise, very soon they darken and fall off.

Alternanthera is planted using cuttings, each of which must have at least four leaves. The sprout is placed on the surface of the water. After a week, it will produce miniature roots, and now it will be ready to be planted in a container. Place the plants in the aquarium along the walls. Coarse sand is suitable as a soil. If soil is used, its thickness at the bottom should be at least 3 cm. Small pieces of clay are placed under the plants.

Toothed (Alternanthera dentata)

A herbaceous plant that does not require special growing conditions. The shoots grow up to half a meter long, then they need to be pinched. Gardeners fell in love with the culture due to the burgundy color of the leaves, sometimes turning into rich purple. The color of the crown depends on the brightness of the lighting. Responds well to fertilizer with a high nitrogen content. Feeding is carried out from March to August. The decorative effect is manifested by lush burgundy foliage, the flowers are small and sparse. Transplantation is carried out in early spring. It is better to shorten the shoots to no more than 10 centimeters. If desired, the bush can be trimmed to give it any shape. Looks great against the background of low-growing green plants, contrasting well with them.

Lilac (Alternanthera lilacina)

The plants are amazingly beautiful, attracting attention with ruby ​​foliage, since both the back and front sides are painted in various shades of red. The rich color creates the effect of a blazing fire. The view in the center of the aquarium looks very nice. The only drawback is the slow growth of the plant. Lilac altarnanthera is a low, erect shrub no more than 53 cm in height that develops more actively in terrestrial conditions. Grows well in an aquarium with ideal filtration. It can be propagated by cuttings.

Splendida or shiny (Alternanthera splendida)

One of the luxurious species that surprises with its beauty is the brilliant alternanthera. Exotic has a straight stem with small ovate leaves of red-pink color. It can be planted in aquariums, creating a contrast with green plants and algae. The height of the bush reaches 40 centimeters. The main condition for good development is sufficient lighting. Fertilize plants with iron-containing preparations. Alternanthera has an underdeveloped root system and is saturated with vitamins through water. Reproduction is possible vegetatively, by cuttings. Grows well in fine-grained soil.

Pink (Alternanthera reineckii)

Or as this variety is also called ˗ Reineka. Its main feature is the red tint of the leaves, which do not lose their intense color even in low light. The flower looks very beautiful against the background of green mass in the aquarium. This is an erect shrub with long shoots that spread along the surface. Submerged alternanthera grows slowly, although this species is very popular because it develops well in conditions where temperatures drop to +20 degrees. For full growth, the water in the aquarium must be clean. With the help of alternanthera, you can turn any ideas into reality and make the aquarium a unique place of relaxation, a corner of paradise in the apartment.

Rules of care

In order for plants to develop well and delight you with their decorative properties for a long time, you need to know the intricacies of caring for them.

Lighting

The subshrub must receive enough sunlight, which provides the green foliage with intense color. Otherwise, they become green and lose their decorative effect. Can be used for additional illumination, both natural and artificial lighting. In the second case, the plant is illuminated with special lamps. It is forbidden to use incandescent lamps, which leave burns on the shoots. There should be at least 12 hours of daylight.

Temperature

A warm, humid climate guarantees the rapid development of alternanthera. In summer it should not drop below + 18 degrees. In winter, it is important to prevent the flower from hypothermia. In addition, it needs to be sprayed frequently, creating additional moisture. In the hot heat, you should set aside time to care for your green pet.

Feeding

The plant is fertilized regularly. You need to start at the end of February and stop at the beginning of autumn. The ideal option would be a complex fertilizer

Diseases and pests

When growing a crop indoors, you may encounter diseases and insects that affect it.

Gray rot

When grown indoors, the plant is bothered by gray rot, which is caused by excess moisture. To correct the situation, you need to remove the plant from the container and carefully examine it. It is advisable to cut off the rotten parts and replant the plant in dry soil. In the future, it is necessary to drain excess water from the pan. Nearby plants should be sprayed with a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.

Whitefly

The insect's habitat is under the green mass, where it can lay larvae. The presence of whiteflies is indicated by sticky marks and a decrease in turgor in the leaves. The stem can be slightly shaken, the insect quickly takes off. The pest is attracted to high humidity, so the flower must have access to fresh air.

Aphid

Spider mite

Its presence is indicated by a whitish coating, and cobwebs appear between the leaves. Leaves wither and die. On the back side, the mite forms a white coating, among which insects can be detected with the naked eye. The problem can be solved with the help of insecticides. It is important to inspect the plant in a timely manner, since pests can be carriers of various diseases and infections.

You should use drugs purchased in a store with caution, since some of them are toxic to the body and can be harmful and cause poisoning.

When planning to purchase an alternanthera, it is important to study the varieties and their characteristics so that you are not disappointed with the result, and the plant grows strong and healthy, pleasing the eye for a long time.

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Alternanthera is a charming plant that immediately attracts attention. This is a red, blazing fire in the underwater kingdom.

The plant looks great in a variety of aquascapes; as a rule, this plant is used as a focal point. Some Alternanthera species are successfully used in aquariums and ponds: Alternanthera sessilis and Alternanthera reineckii.

Alternanteras were brought to Europe by South American importers in the late seventies. Around the same time, they appeared among our amateur aquarists. The genus Alternanthera Forskal, 1775 belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. There are approximately 200 species in the genus. These are annual and perennial herbaceous plants, bushes and even trees. They are common in tropical and subtropical regions of America, Asia, Australia, Africa, and are even found on the Galapagos Islands.

All representatives of the genus have counter or opposite leaves. The flowers are usually inconspicuous and not conspicuous, but the color of the leaves is so magnificent that several species are widely used in floriculture. Alternanteras, low-growing compact plants used in gardens and parks when decorating carpet flower beds, flower beds, borders, etc. They can be given any shape, as they tolerate cutting quite well. Alternanthera vesikolor looks great, its leaves and stems are dark or copper red, turning to pink; Between the veins on the leaves there are greenish and copper spots. Alternanthera amoena (Lem) Voss and A. bettzickiana are excellent decorations for interiors, their blood-red spots contrast beautifully with the greenery of other plants. Some Alternanthera species are successfully cultivated in aquariums. They were brought to our country under the commercial names "Telantera osiris", "T. lilacina", "T. rubra". All these plants grow, bloom and reproduce well in water. Upon more detailed study by botanists, it was found that these alternanthera should be classified as follows:

Alternanthera reineckii Briquet, 1899 ("Telantera osiris");

Alternanthera sessilis (L. 1753) De Candolle, 1813, having two varieties: A. sessilis var. lilacina ("Telantera lilacina") and A. sessilis var. rubra ("Telantera rubra").

Alternanthera reineckii

Originates from southern Brazil and Paraguay, where it grows as a marsh plant, well adapted to long-term above-water life. This species is the most resistant and easily cultivated underwater conditions. For many years, A. reineckii remains a magnificent addition to decorative aquariums. In nature, it belongs to communities that have been in flooded areas for a long time. These are huge fields covered with creeping stems with their tops raised above the water. The leaves are sessile, elongated - ellipsoidal in shape, arranged crosswise (each subsequent pair is perpendicular to the previous one). Their length is 2.5-3.5 centimeters, width 0.5-1.5. The upper side is green, the lower side is pink or red. In summer, tiny sessile yellow-green or pinkish flowers appear in the leaf axils. Underwater, the stem grows vertically and quickly comes out in shallow aquariums. Above-water shoots are used to adapt the plant to terrestrial conditions. If you put them under water again, the leaves will fall off. Thus, the tops of the plant, located above the surface of the water, contribute to the preservation of the species when living conditions change.

In an aquarium, Alternanthera rhineca is planted in the middle ground or on the sides, but not very densely, since the plant is very fragile. When submerged, the stems of the plant grow perpendicularly and quickly reach the surface of the water, and in small aquariums (up to 20-25 cm) they grow above its surface and form airy leaves. In this case, the functions of the underwater leaves lose their strength, and the plant sheds them. Therefore, the crown of the stem that has reached the surface of the water must be pinched in a timely manner. This will not only preserve the underwater leaves, but will also force the stem to branch, forming nice bushes that change color depending on environmental conditions. In an aquarium, Alternanthera rhineca grows quickly, by 10-15 cm per month.

Lighting for Alternanthera Rhineca needs to be bright. Fluorescent lamps with a power of 0.5 W/l can be used as sources of artificial light. The color of the leaves and the appearance of this plant directly depend on the lighting in the aquarium. Direct sunlight is also very beneficial for the plant. The duration of daylight is at least 12 hours.

The nutritional value of the soil for alternator rhinek is not of great importance. The plant receives most of its nutrients directly from water. Coarse sand is suitable as a substrate, since the root system of Alternanthera Rhineca develops much better in it. Mineral fertilizing is very useful for rapid growth. Alternanthera rhineca should receive a sufficient amount of nitrogenous substances and trace elements. It is necessary to add divalent iron salts (for example, iron sulfate) to the water 1-2 times a month at a dose of 0.1-0.2 mg per 1 liter of volume.

Alternanthera rhineca reproduces vegetatively. Cuttings are taken from fairly large stems with 4 pairs of leaves and left to float at the surface of the water. The cuttings quickly form roots, after which they can be planted in the ground.

Alternanthera Reinecka also grows well in a humid greenhouse. For optimal plant growth, moist nutritious soil, bright lighting and an air temperature of 26-30 ° C are required. In such conditions, alternanthera forms dense thickets of bright purple color.

Alternanthera sesilis

The process of adaptation to water conditions is not hampered by the falling of the lower leaves, since new ornamental bushes are formed. With sufficient lighting in the aquarium, the upper side of the leaf is usually green, the lower side is light green or pinkish; in partial shade or shaded areas - olive-brown and violet-red, respectively. But, unfortunately, this plant has a less intense red color than other Alternanthera species cultivated in our country. It grows equally well in shaded areas and in direct light. Sufficiently mature, well-formed parts of the stems that have at least four pairs of leaves should be planted in the aquarium. This is the only species of the genus that reproduces quite quickly under water, forming powerful bushes. Groups of 10-15 plants look most attractive. They are good for decorating the back walls of small aquariums. In large species aquariums, groups of alternanthers are placed in the middle part in free places, where they form islands with an area of ​​20-30 square centimeters. Alternatera sessile is characterized by the fact that in its terrestrial form it has a dense, highly branched stem, and in conditions of low humidity it is creeping. The seeds are small, whitish.

Alternanthera sessilis var. lilacina found in warm regions around the globe. This plant adapts well to different forms of existence and can grow both underwater and on land. The color of plants is very variable and depends on cultivation conditions. Usually the upper side of the leaf is olive green, the underside is dark red to purple. But sometimes forms appear in which the leaves on both sides are colored intense red. In the middle zone, the plant can be successfully cultivated in open ground in summer. To keep this alternanthera in an aquarium, it must be grown in conditions of high air humidity (85-95 percent) of a tropical paludarium at a temperature of 20 to 30 ° C. Young, not yet flowering shoots, when planted under water, easily take root and relatively rarely die. The plant is insensitive to the chemical composition of water, tolerates both partial shade and excess light equally well, the optimal pH value of water is about 7. The basic rule when growing this alternanthera is to create fairly stable conditions in the aquarium. It grows well in crystal clear water without algae.Alternanthera sessilis var. rubra- the plant is emergent and can be easily cultivated in a moist paludarium. It grows very quickly: in 3-4 weeks the stem reaches a length of 15-20 centimeters with a large number of leaves. The underwater form forms branched, creeping stems above the ground, and only a third of them straighten and also begin to branch strongly near the surface of the water. In general, they reach a length of 50-60 centimeters. The leaves are opposite, 3.5-5.0 long and 0.8-1.7 centimeters wide. On both sides they are painted ruby ​​red. The stem is also red.

Pressed to the ground with a pebble, it forms a large number of white roots in the place of an independent pair of leaves and takes root easily. The flowers are completely sessile, red or pink; they appear in the axils of the opposite pair of leaves. Since this plant comes from the tropics, it begins to bloom around the equinox, when there is 12 hours of light per day, that is, the length of a tropical day. These plants are usually planted in an aquarium in groups of 3-5 or more shoots. The most suitable place is in the middle part of the pond, where they are placed in front of taller green and yellow-green plants. Under water, they take root within ten days, but subsequently they do not grow as quickly as in a paludarium, and retain their decorative appearance well for 2-6 months. When the leaves begin to fall, the plants should be replaced with new ones. To do this, you need to have an additional greenhouse, growing new adult plants from cuttings in it, which need the highest possible air humidity and diffused lighting. In aquarium conditions A. sessilis var. rubra needs good light and slightly acidic water.

Alternanteras are amazingly beautiful plants that serve as decoration for decorative aquariums. They also look great when cultivated in open reservoirs of garden plots, where you can create compositions with both aquatic forms and those that have emerged to the surface of the water and rooted on coastal soil.

Beautiful photos with an alternanthera in an aquarium

Video of Alternanther in an aquarium

PRACTICAL NOTE ON GROWING AQUARIUM PLANTS

This note is posted in all FanFishka articles dedicated to aquarium plants. This is a cheat sheet with a link that will help you grow any aquarium plant and herbalist of any complexity.

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First of all, the proper level of lighting is necessary.

(light intensity - Lumens)

Water parameters, care and quality water changes

The gradation of this formula is based on the degree of importance. Lighting intensity is primary, and then descending. Therefore, if your plants have holes in the leaves, they have sciatica (crooked) or there are problems with algae, then please do not read the “bad advice” - this is chlorosis (lack of iron), this is a lack of potassium... diarrhea, phimosis and endometriosis )

You always need to solve the problem of setting up an herbalist from major to minor. Plants will die more quickly from a lack of lighting than from a lack of Fe and K. Moreover, the latter are always present in one degree or another in the aquarium, but it is difficult to measure their precise value.

Below, let's go from the main to the minor.

Lighting in an aquarium with plants. Remember, the most important thing in light is - All other lighting characteristics: spectrum, Kelvin, PAR/PAR, Ra... are important, but secondary. There will be no intensity of lighting, there will be nothing. At the same time, the lighting intensity must be balanced - selected specifically for your project (height of the water column, number and types of plants, daylight hours).

Based on the above, choose aquarium lighting primarily by the number of lumens, and then everything else.

Lighting is the most expensive part. The most budget-friendly solution is to install conventional ones. Fortunately, they are now very thin and aesthetic. And believe me, under them everything grows with a bang, of course, provided that all the other components are present.

If you want professional lighting or aesthetics. Then you will have to fork out some money. The amounts can vary quickly from 10,000 to 50,000+ rubles for a 100 liter aquarium. It’s difficult to advise anything, because... Everyone has different needs and capabilities. - Tetra, Laguna, ISTA lighting.

We tried to briefly and objectively talk about them. Then it's up to you. In any case, we do not really recommend that you pay attention to handicraft lighting assembly from folk craftsmen. Not all, but as a rule, they shove who knows what kind of diodes into such an assembly, assemble it all on their knees... and believe me, more than once on the forum you hear echoes of the consequences of such a purchase. Still, a company is a company. At a minimum, you are given warranty and post-warranty service.

If you are a beginner, your first herbalist, then LED spotlights are your choice. Let's move on, otherwise this note isn't very short =)

The plant is approximately 90% water, the remaining 10% is dry matter. Of that 10%, 46% is carbon. This is why CO2 supply is so important in a planted aquarium.

Plants in an aquarium obtain carbon “from water” - from carbon-containing compounds. But the natural concentration of C-carbon in water is small and is only sufficient for unpretentious plants, but they, and even more so, will be happy with additional carbon feeding. You can provide CO2 supply in other ways.

The best, professional, simple and subsequently budget option is to supply carbon dioxide through a cylinder. One thing, but - the starting purchase of a set: a cylinder, an MG valve, a diffuser.... will hit the budget.

Is it possible to do without CO2, but for a couple of bushes of simple plants (, etc.).

On sale you will find two series of ISTA Aluminum CO2 Cylinder cylinders, with horizontal and vertical threads of 1 and 3 liters.

All fertilizers, of any brand, can be divided into and.

Macro fertilizers- this is nitrate NO3 and phosphate PO4 from which plants take N-nitrogen and P-phosphorus. These are the most important elements after CO2 - C-carbon.

Remember - . Always keep it under control and everything will be ok. Right, based on our observations, the Redfield proportion rules only in the full N-P-C ratio. Incomplete proportion - without carbon C does not give good results.

Micro fertilizers. These are all the other less important elements that are necessary for plants (see link). There is no point in putting too much emphasis on them. Firstly, all of them are contained in one quantity or another in tap water and are restored in the aquarium with changes. Secondly, an overdose of micro very quickly leads to an outbreak of algae.

A common mistake made by beginners is not understanding what they are pouring into the aquarium. For example, let’s take such a popular and popular fertilizer as. Read the product summary at the link - it strengthens, stimulates, and gives a chic body shape.

A beginner, without delving into the essence, uses it and gets an outbreak of algae, writes on the forums - “Like, wow, what a bad Tetra.” And the trouble lies not in the drug, but in misunderstanding. The beginner has a Redfield bias (let’s say N and P are generally zero) and instead of making up for the lack of these primary elements, he fills the aquarium with Tetra PlantaMin - a micro-fertilizer (iron, potassium, manganese). As a result, going over the micro is only detrimental, because... plants lack the base - nitrogen and phosphorus.

Thus, you must understand what plants lack and understand fertilizers.

How to understand what plants lack? It's simple. Now the market is filled with a variety of expensive and not so expensive aquarium water tests. We recommend inexpensive domestic ones - they are sold online and offline.

The minimum set of tests for an herbalist is NO3 and PO4. It is advisable to have the entire nitrogen range: NH4, NO2, NO3. As well as kH and pH tests.

Tests help us monitor the situation in the herbalist, but over time it is advisable to learn to see and feel the aquarium for yourself. With experience you need to move away from “convulsive testing”; the best aquarium test and tool is ourselves.

Let's summarize this part. Macro, it’s macro in Africa too. The link above generally contains a recipe on how to make them yourself. If you are not yet ready for self-mixing, then you will always and everywhere find a line of fertilizers from Tetra:

Of course, there are many other brands that produce aquarium fertilizers. There is an opportunity, use even ADA products. All markers are different in taste and color. The main thing is to use it with a clear understanding of what you are using it for and what you want to get in the end.

We can recommend from a professional line of fertilizers at an adequate price (soils, soils, macro, micro, stimulants, etc.).

So, something like a note turns into the Talmud. Which is not surprising - the topic is very broad. One moment left.

Water parameters for aquarium plants. and please look at these articles, they reveal the essence quite well.

Here we note that the quality of photosynthesis is influenced by the process of caring for the aquarium: water parameters (kH, pH below 7), high-quality filtration and aeration, competent and timely water changes.

Please study materials on the topic, be involved in the hobby and do not stop there. This is the secret of success. An aquarium is a whole ecosystem to which it is impossible to apply one magic pill. In an aquarium, everything should work comprehensively and in balance.

Often newcomers step on a rake, only because they behave like a monorail tram. “Algae has appeared” --- “More remedies for algae” --- “Bought” --- “Filled it up” --- “Not Waving” --- ... But what if we say that the absence of algae in the aquarium is a whim aquarists! What if you don't have to fight them?

Let's take any remedy for algae, in 99% of cases it is a 2.5% aqueous solution of glutaraldehyde. Therefore, there is little point in choosing a remedy for algae. Glutaraldehyde is an aldehyde in Zimbabwe. The cheaper the better. The domestic one is quite good.

But the trick is that no algaecide will help you if you do not find the root cause of the appearance of algae - imbalance in: light, fertilizers, care and water parameters. As soon as you eliminate the cause, the algae will recede on its own. That is, there is no need to “strangle the algae” - they are natural inhabitants of the aquarium, they just need to be “kept in check.” Algaecides help in the fight, but they are not a panacea.

Let me conclude here because the topic is very fascinating, but endless.

Thanks to all,

Finally, we suggest you watch a couple of videos