The world of aquatic plants is already so fascinating, but when you start bringing in more vibrant eye-catching plants - that’s when things get even better! I’m sure we all remember the colorful rocks and plastic neon plants you may have had in a tank from your childhood, although looking back on them now we may think “What were we thinking?” but in reality, most of us just loved the fun colors it brought to our tanks! Now, what if we told you - you could get a similar colorful look with live plants? Byincorporating vivid red plants you’ll be adding new dimensions of interest to your tank. Starting with number one,  my favorite red aquatic plant!

SCARLET TEMPLE 

Scientific Name: Alternanthera reineckii

Light Requirements: Medium to High

Care Level: Moderate

Scarlet Temple is a member of the Alternanthera family and is relatively easy to grow, and suitable for aquarists of all skill levels. While it can thrive in various setups, providing extra care results in thicker growth and more vibrant colors. This popular ornamental plant offers vivid leaf details, making it ideal for tanks with small fry and providing protection against aggressive fish. It also enhances oxygen levels in the water, supporting tank inhabitants. For optimal growth, maintain soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures between 68 – 82 °F and moderate to intense lighting. Despite being slow growers, they can reach lengths of approximately 20 inches with patience and care.

DWARF LILY

Scientific Name:Nymphphaea rubra

Light Requirements: Low to Medium

Care Level: Easy

The dwarf lily scientifically known as Nymphphaea Rubra, is an excellent choice for beginner aquarists. When planting, ensure the bulb is not buried completely, with a maximum depth of halfway up the bulb. Typically, the bulb produces multiple plants that can either be separated or left attached. As the lily grows, it sends out new leaves that gradually reach the water's surface. Trimming the leaves to your desired length promotes controlled growth. It also can help absorb excess nutrients, contributing to a balanced aquatic environment.

RED ROOT FLOATERS

Scientific Name:Phyllanthus Fluitans

Light Requirements: Low to High

Care Level: Easy to Medium skill 

The Red Root Floaters, scientifically known as Phyllanthus Fluitans, are an ideal choice for open aquariums, featuring thin stems and centrally arched floating leaves measuring 5-10 cm in length. While they add aesthetic appeal to aquariums, they require specific lighting, and water conditions, and may need additional fertilizers for best results. They display deeper red leaves under good lighting conditions, although they prefer harder water with increasing light intensity. They do not tolerate currents and flourish in water temperatures between 75-85°F. 

RED FLAME SWORD

Scientific Name: Echinodorus "Red Flame"

Light Requirements:Low to Medium

Care Level:Easy

The Red Flame Sword, scientifically known as the Echinodorus “Red Flame” is known for its ease of care, similar to other Echinodorus variations, and it can exhibit vibrant red coloration under optimal conditions. When using an inert substrate, it's recommended to supplement with root tab fertilizers beneath the plant to ensure sufficient nutrient uptake. For optimal growth, this plant thrives in nutrient-rich soil supplemented with fertilizers, we suggest fertilizers from Brightwell. Insufficient nutrients may hinder its spread. While the use of CO2 can enhance growth, it is not essential for this species.

 RED TIGER LOTUS

Scientific Name: Nymphaea Zenker

Light Requirements:Medium to High is recommended

Care Level:Easy

The Red Tiger Lotus (Nymphaea Zenkeri) is known for its vibrant reddish leaves and occasional flowering. These plants are popular among aquarium enthusiasts because; they are typically easy to care for. They just need an open, well-lit space to grow. You can add fertilizers to promote growth, but it's not necessary for these plants to thrive. While the addition of a fertilizer can accelerate growth, it may lead to the development of long-stalked floating leaves that can obstruct light for lower plants. You might need to remove these leaves on occasion to ensure adequate lighting for submerged plants. Furthermore, Red Tiger Lotuses adapt well to various water parameters and temperatures, making them versatile choices for aquarium setups.

In conclusion, although red aquatic plants are stunning, they aren’t much more finicky than most other aquatic plants. It’s just important to note that the better you take care of a red plant, often the better color it produces. Although they all don’t require high light and fertilization to survive, they might need those additions to thrive.