Samolus Parviflorus Red (tc cup)

Description

Samolus parviflorus ‘Red’ is a relatively new and rare plant in the aquarium hobby, loved for its compact size and vibrant reddish-pink hues, especially under high light. It’s a foreground to midground plant with a unique look that blends the aesthetic of carpeting plants with the color drama of red stems.

🌿 Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Samolus parviflorus ‘Red’

• Common Name: Red Water Pimpernel (though less used)

• Family: Primulaceae

• Origin: North America (natural form), but red cultivar is cultivated for aquascaping

• Growth Type: Rosette-forming, low-growing stem/leaf plant

• Size: 3–6 cm tall, spreads laterally

❤️ Why It’s Cool

• The reddish-pink tones contrast beautifully with green plants, and it keeps a low profile unlike many red aquarium plants.

• Can be used in the foreground, which is rare for red species (most are taller).

• Its compact growth makes it ideal for nano tanks and nature-style layouts.

🌱 Care Guide

💡 Light

• High light is key to bringing out the red coloration.

• Under low light, it tends to stay more green or pale pink.

💧 CO₂ & Nutrients

• CO₂ injection is recommended for healthy, vibrant growth.

• Responds well to rich substrates (like ADA Aqua Soil) and regular water column dosing, especially iron.

🌊 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

✂️ Trimming & Propagation

• Grows slowly but can be propagated via runners or replanting cuttings.

• Trimming helps keep it tidy and encourages lateral spreading.

⚠️ Things to Watch

• Melting leaves after planting: pretty normal as it transitions from emersed to submerged growth.

• Fading color: Often due to low light or insufficient nutrients (especially iron and trace elements).

• Algae: Since it’s usually in the foreground, be careful with intense light and keep good CO₂ and fert balance.