Telanthera

Scarlet Temple (Telanthera) – Easy Red Aquarium Plant for Mid to Background Use

Scarlet Temple is one of the best beginner-friendly red aquarium plants, ideal for adding a vibrant pop of red and pinkto planted tanks. With the right lighting, this plant develops rich coloration that stands out beautifully against green backgrounds.

While CO₂ is helpful, strong lighting is the key to getting the most out of this plant. Great for medium-tech tanks, Scarlet Temple can grow tall for background use or be trimmed down into a bushy midground feature.

Lighting Requirements: 6+ hours/day (strong full-spectrum light recommended)
CO₂ Requirements: Helpful but not required
Care Level: Medium (mainly due to lighting needs)
Fertiliser Needs: Benefits from liquid fertiliser, especially iron-rich blends
Growth Type: Upright stem plant
Placement: Midground or background
Potential Issues: Leaves may be eaten by African cichlids, bristlenose catfish, or turtles

Why Choose Scarlet Temple?

• Bright Red-Pink Colouration: Striking accent plant for any aquascape

• Great for Learners: One of the easiest red plants to grow

• Flexible Use: Can be trimmed short or left tall for layering

• Works in Medium-Tech Tanks: Just needs a good light to thrive

• Aquascape Friendly: Adds vertical depth and colour balance to green-dominant layouts

Care Tips:

• Prioritise strong lighting to maintain red tones

• Trim regularly to prevent legginess and encourage bushy growth

• Use a nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs for better colour and growth

• Avoid housing with aggressive herbivores or large algae eaters

Supplied in 5cm potted portions by Duthie Aquatics — grown for colour, health, and fast establishment.