Scientific Name: Ludwigia palustris RED
Common Names: Red Ludwigia, Red Marshweed
Plant Type: Stem plant
Native Range: North and Central America
Difficulty Level: Moderate to difficult
Lighting Requirements: High lighting (3-4 watts per gallon of water)
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
pH: 6.0-7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2-12 dKH)
CO2 Requirements: Recommended, but not mandatory. Can benefit from supplemental CO2 in higher light setups.
Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate is recommended. Can also be grown in sand or gravel, but may benefit from root tabs or liquid fertilizers.
Fertilization: Regular fertilization with a comprehensive aquatic plant fertilizer is necessary to support healthy growth.
Placement: Background plant in the aquarium. Can be used as a focal point or background plant in larger aquariums.
Propagation: Propagated through stem cuttings or lateral shoots that develop from the main stem.
Growth Rate: Fast
Pruning: Regular pruning is required to control its size and encourage bushier growth.
Special Considerations:
Lighting: Ludwigia palustris RED requires high lighting levels to thrive and maintain its vibrant red coloration. Insufficient lighting can result in reduced growth and duller coloration. Consider providing a high-quality aquarium light with a color temperature around 6500K for optimal growth.
CO2 Injection: While not mandatory, supplemental CO2 can greatly benefit the growth and coloration of Ludwigia palustris RED, especially in setups with high lighting levels. CO2 injection can enhance growth and intensify the red coloration of the plant. However, it can still grow well in setups without CO2 supplementation, but the coloration may be less intense.
Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended for Ludwigia palustris RED to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth. The substrate should be rich in iron, potassium, and other essential micronutrients. Alternatively, root tabs or liquid fertilizers can be used to supplement the substrate.
Water Parameters: Provide stable water parameters with a temperature range of 68-82°F (20-28°C), pH of 6.0-7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Avoid sudden changes in water parameters, as it may cause stress to the plant.
Pruning: Regular pruning is necessary to control the size of Ludwigia palustris RED and encourage bushier growth. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning tools to trim the stems and remove any old or damaged leaves. Prune as needed to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant.
Algae Control: Ludwigia palustris RED is relatively resistant to algae growth, especially in setups with good lighting and nutrient balance. However, maintaining good aquarium hygiene practices, such as regular water changes, substrate vacuuming, and nutrient management, can help prevent algae issues.
Compatibility: Ludwigia palustris RED is generally compatible with most aquarium fish and invertebrates. However, it is a fast-growing plant and may require regular pruning to prevent it from overshadowing other plants in the aquarium. Consider its size and placement in your aquascape.
Ludwigia palustris RED is a striking red-colored plant that can add a stunning focal point to your aquarium. With proper care and attention to lighting, CO2, and nutrient requirements, it can thrive and provide a beautiful addition to your aquatic setup.