Alternanthera bettzickiana 'Red' commonly known as a Calico Plant. It is a terrarium, vivarium, or bog plant that is sometimes used as aquatic plant decoration even though it's not a true aquatic plant. It has light pink to red stem, green to yellow leaf. When growing in strong light, the leaf will turn to intense red color.
Under a proper environment, it can only be submerged for several months. After that, it should be grown emerged for a few months again so they can restore the energy they lose before it has the ability and strength to adapt and survive to underwater life for a period of time.
Because of the ability to survive underwater for a long period of time, a lot of hobbyists used this plant as an alternative for other true aquatic plants because they claimed it can survive or even grow a few inches taller and develop roots in their aquarium longer than some of the other true aquatic plants.
When grow emerged, above water. It should be kept in a consistent high humid with wet soil. Especially when they are in the recovery stage or when their environment is changed from underwater to above water.
- Sold as loose Fresh-cut Plants, Bunched plants, or Potted plants
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Fresh-cut plants | approx. 6 stems, loose fresh-cut plants without root
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Bunched plants | approx. 6 fresh-cut plants without root bundle with foam, and plant's weight
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Potted plants | approx. 6 fresh-cut plants without root potted with net pot and rock wool
Disclaimer: Pictures are not the actual plants you will receive, but a sample representation. Unless specific, we don't guarantee aquatic plants will be free of pests, pesticides, grow emerged, or submerge.
True Aquatic: No
Suitable for: Terrarium, Vivarium, Pond or House Plants in consistent high humidity
Lighting: Partial sunlight, or LED daylight
CO2: Recommended
Growth Rates: Medium
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Nutrient Substrate: Recommended
Lighting Requirements: Medium-High