This listing is for ONE bunch (4-5 stems) of Temple Scarlet plant from my healthy and snail free guppy fish tank. You will receive a bunch of plant with similar size to the one shown on my hand.
The Temple Scarlet plant is a striking, red-hued aquatic plant that’s popular among aquascapers for its vivid color and elegant, delicate stems. Often used as a background or midground plant, its intense coloration can add a dramatic focal point to your aquarium. While “Temple Scarlet” is often grouped with other red-stemmed aquatic plants (such as certain Rotala cultivars), its care requirements are similar to many red, light-demanding aquatics.
What Is the Temple Scarlet Plant?
• Appearance:
The plant features slender stems adorned with red to reddish-orange leaves. When provided with the right conditions, its color deepens, creating a striking contrast in the aquarium.
• Usage in Aquascaping:
Temple Scarlet is often used to add a burst of color to aquascapes. Its graceful, arching growth habit makes it ideal for creating depth and layering, and it can serve as a dramatic backdrop when paired with greener, contrasting species.
• Growth Characteristics:
It grows in a bushy, branching manner and, like many red aquatic plants, its vibrant color is enhanced under high-light conditions and adequate CO₂ supplementation. It propagates through stem cuttings, making it relatively easy to expand your display.
How to Grow the Temple Scarlet Plant
1. Lighting
• High-Intensity Lighting:
To bring out the plant’s rich red hues, it benefits from moderate to high lighting. Inadequate light may result in a greener appearance rather than the desired scarlet tone.
• Placement:
Position the plant where it can receive direct, consistent light—usually in the mid-to-background area of the tank so that taller plants do not cast excessive shade.
2. Water Conditions
• Temperature:
Maintain tropical water conditions, ideally between 72°F and 82°F (22°C–28°C).
• pH and Hardness:
Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 6.5–7.5) with moderate water hardness. Stable water quality, maintained through regular water changes and proper filtration, supports robust growth.
3. CO₂ and Nutrients
• CO₂ Supplementation:
While not absolutely mandatory, providing supplemental CO₂ will enhance both the growth rate and the intensity of the red coloration.
• Fertilization:
A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial. If using a less nutrient-dense substrate, supplement with liquid fertilizers designed for aquatic plants to supply essential macro- and micronutrients.
4. Planting and Propagation
• Planting Technique:
Gently insert the stem segments into the substrate, ensuring that you do not bury the crown or base of the plant. This helps avoid rotting while allowing the roots to anchor properly.
• Propagation:
The plant propagates easily via stem cuttings. Simply trim a healthy segment with several nodes and plant it in the substrate. New shoots will emerge from the nodes, expanding your aquascape over time.
5. Maintenance
• Regular Trimming:
Periodic trimming not only prevents the plant from becoming too overgrown but also encourages denser, more vibrant growth. Trim away any faded or dying leaves to keep the plant healthy.
• Algae Control:
High light levels can sometimes encourage algae on the leaves. Managing light exposure and ensuring proper nutrient dosing can help keep algae at bay.
By providing the Temple Scarlet plant with high-intensity lighting, stable water conditions, and supplemental CO₂ along with proper nutrient management, you can encourage its vivid red coloration and vigorous growth. This makes it an excellent choice for adding visual interest and dynamic color contrast to your aquatic setup.
