Alternanthera amabilis 'Tricolor' – Bunched Aquarium Plant
Vibrant Tricolor Foliage for Stunning Midground Impact
Scientific Name: Alternanthera amabilis
Common Name: Alternanthera Tricolor, Amabilis Tricolor
Type: Stem Plant
Growth Rate: Moderate
Lighting Requirement: Medium to High
CO₂ Requirement: Recommended for best color and compact growth
Origin: South America
Format: Bunched (weighted stem bundle)
Description:
Alternanthera amabilis 'Tricolor' is a striking stem plant prized for its eye-catching blend of pink, red, and green hues. Its variegated, lance-shaped leaves and bold coloration make it a perfect accent or focal plant in the midground of aquascapes. This variety is especially popular in Dutch-style layouts or color-focused tanks.
When grown under strong light with CO₂ and nutrients, this plant develops intense coloration and dense, upright growth. Even in lower-tech tanks, it retains its visual appeal and adds a splash of warmth.
Key Features:
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Stunning tricolor leaves: pink, red, and green
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Excellent for midground placement and color contrast
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Easily propagated via stem cuttings
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Perfect for artistic or colorful aquascapes
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Grows well in nutrient-rich setups with CO₂ and light
Care Tips:
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Provide high light and CO₂ to enhance red/pink tones and leaf compactness
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Trim regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess
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Plant stems in small groups for a fuller appearance
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Use root tabs or complete liquid fertilizers for vibrant growth
Ideal For:
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Midground display in high-contrast aquascapes
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Dutch-style tanks with tiered plant layouts
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Aquarists looking for a color-rich centerpiece
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CO₂-injected or well-lit planted tanks