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Samolus parviflorus 'Red' is an unusual and attractive aquarium plant known for its compact growth and striking reddish to bronze foliage. Its broad, rounded leaves provide a distinctive contrast to fine-leaved stem plants and carpeting species.
It is particularly suited to the foreground or midground of planted aquariums, where its compact rosette-like growth can be used as an accent plant. Under strong lighting and good CO₂ availability, the foliage can develop deeper red and bronze tones.
Like many less-common aquarium plants, it performs best in an established aquarium with stable parameters, good lighting and consistent nutrition.
Scientific Name: Samolus parviflorus 'Red'
Common Name: Red Samolus
Family: Primulaceae
Type: Freshwater Aquarium Plant / Rosette Plant
Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
Difficulty: Intermediate
Placement: Foreground to Midground
Lighting: Moderate to High
CO₂: Recommended
pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5
Temperature: Approximately 20–28°C
Water Hardness: Soft to Moderately Hard
Propagation: Side Shoots / Cuttings
Growth Form: Compact, Broad-Leaved
It is generally considered intermediate difficulty. Stable conditions, good lighting and consistent nutrition will give the best results.
Provide strong lighting, consistent CO₂ and balanced nutrients. Good overall plant health is more important than deliberately restricting nutrients.
CO₂ is not absolutely essential, but it is strongly beneficial for healthy growth and stronger colouration.
It works well in the foreground to midground, where its broad foliage can provide contrast against fine-leaved plants.
Once established, it can be propagated through side shoots or suitable cuttings, which can be separated and replanted.
Using insufficient lighting
Low light can reduce compact growth and colour intensity.
Skipping CO₂ in a high-light aquarium
Strong lighting without sufficient carbon can make maintaining healthy growth more difficult.
Planting the crown too deeply
Keep the growing point above the substrate to prevent rot.
Neglecting root nutrition
A nutrient-rich substrate or suitable root fertiliser can help support healthy growth.
Sudden changes in water parameters
Stable conditions are particularly important while the plant is establishing.
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