Description
Ludwigia Repens
Price for one submerged grown stem
Overview
Ludwigia repens is a popular, versatile aquatic plant prized for its vibrant green leaves that can turn reddish under high light. Native to North and Central America, it’s a fast-growing stem plant ideal for freshwater aquariums. Its adaptability and aesthetic appeal make it suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists alike, adding colour and texture to aquascapes.
Care Requirements
Lighting: Moderate to high (50-100 µmol PAR). High light enhances red colouration; low light keeps it green.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 20-28°C
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3-10 dGH)
Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate (e.g., aquasoil) or gravel with root tabs/liquid fertilizers.
Nutrients: Requires iron and micronutrients for vibrant growth.
CO2: CO2 injection is optional but boosts growth and colour.
Tank Requirements: Suitable for tanks as small as 40 litres, though larger tanks allow better growth.
Planting and Propagation
Planting: Cut stems (10-15cm) and plant 2-5cm deep in substrate, spacing 2-5cm apart for bushy growth. Can also be left floating temporarily.
Propagation: Simply cut healthy stems below a node and replant. Side shoots can also be trimmed and replanted. Regular trimming encourages denser growth.
Placement: Best in midground or background due to its height (up to 40cm).
Maintenance
- Trimming: Trim tops regularly to control height and encourage bushy growth. Replant trimmings for propagation.
- Cleaning: Remove dead or decaying leaves to prevent algae and maintain water quality.
- Fertilization: Use liquid fertilizers (e.g., iron, potassium) weekly or root tabs monthly if substrate lacks nutrients.
- Water Changes: Perform 20-30% water changes weekly to maintain nutrient balance and water quality.
Challenges and Tips
Challenges:
- Algae Growth: Can occur on leaves under high light or nutrient imbalances.
- Melting: May occur during acclimation due to sudden changes in water parameters or light.
- Leggy Growth: Insufficient light causes sparse, elongated stems.
Tips:
- Gradually acclimate to tank conditions to prevent melting.
- Use a timer for 8-10 hours of consistent lighting to avoid algae.
- Combine with algae eaters to keep leaves clean.
- Ensure good water flow to prevent debris buildup on leaves.
Recommendation
- Tank Setup: Ideal for planted tanks with moderate to high lighting and nutrient supplementation. Pairs well with foreground plants like dwarf hairgrass or carpeting plants for contrast.
- Companions: Compatible with most community fish (e.g., tetras, guppies) and invertebrates like cherry shrimp, which help clean algae. Avoid herbivorous fish like silver dollars that may eat it.
- Aquascaping: Use in clusters for a bushy effect or along the back to create a colourful backdrop. Red hues make it a focal point in Dutch-style aquascapes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Its hardiness and easy propagation make it a great choice for new aquarists, though optimal colour requires some care.
