Aquarium Plants Profile: Ludwigia Broad Leaf Repens
To ask a question about this aquarium plant email:
Don Matakis
The width of each stem is about 2 to 3 inches, based on leaf growth
Medium to very high lighting (2 - 4 watts/gal)
Optimum growth temperature is 75 to 79 degrees
Ludwigia Repens is a familiar and very beautiful aquarium plant. It generally makes few demands and grows fast, but the red colour is more intense if the light is good. When pruned it develops countless side shoots and becomes more bushy. Suitable as an intermediate or background plant, and most effective when planted in groups. (Excerpt From Tropica)
Ludwigia Repens is an easy to grow stem plant that will thrive in most aquariums with the basics. The plant typically grows to a height of 12 to 20 inches. The width of each stem is about 2 to 3 inches, based on leaf growth.The leaves ae opposite is very variable and wide eliptic.
In order to achieve strong shoots the substrate should be nutrient rich and light intensity high. Three to five strong specimens can be used for the mid to background area. Ludwigia repens can grow well in both very soft and hard water although soft, slightly acidic water is best. Optimum growth temperature is 75 to 79 degrees, although it can grow in temps from 59 to 79 degrees.
Ludwigia repens requires medium to high lighting (2 - 4 watts/gal) to do well. If kept in low-light tanks the leaves tend to fall off. Separate each stem and plant individually. This will result in better growth and the lower leaves will still receive some light as the this aquarium plant grows taller.
Don's Notes:
My experience with this aquarium plant is that Ludwigia Repens is actually very easy to grow and is a quite stunning aquarium plant when it has enough light. It turns red variegated with good light and grows quite fast. If you break the top off, several side shoots are produced on the remaining stem piece. It is another one of my favorite plants and a welcome addition to any aquascape if utilized properly.
Ludwigia Repens is found in the U.S. and Mexico.
Don Matakis is the Aquatic Grower & Senior Aquaculturist for freshwateraquariumplants.com