Ludwigia repens
Ludwigia repens
Also known asCreeping primrose-willow · Red ludwigia
Water parameters
Light and nutrients
Substrate type: any. Propagation: cuttings.
Substrate compatibility
| Substrate | pH effect | Nutrient load |
|---|---|---|
| Inert sand (Pool filter sand) | neutral / inert | none |
| Inert gravel (Aquarium gravel) | neutral / inert | none |
| Aquasoil (ADA Amazonia) | lowers pH | very high |
| Mineralized clay substrate (Seachem Fluorite) | neutral / inert | moderate |
| Dirted tank (mineralized topsoil) (DIY soil substrate) | slightly acidic | very high |
With fish
Origin and habitat
Native to the southeastern United States and Mexico, found in marshes, pond margins, ditches, and shallow water. The species (Ludwigia repens) is one of the most popular and easiest red-green stem plants in the aquarium hobby. Stems grow upright with opposite pairs of rounded to oval leaves: the upper (newer) leaves are reddish under good light while the lower (older) leaves are dark green, creating an attractive gradient effect along each stem. This two-tone coloring is the species' signature look. The plant grows both emersed and submerged; nursery specimens are typically grown emersed and transition to submerged growth over 1-2 weeks after planting. In the southeastern US, wild L. repens is a common wetland plant found in roadside ditches, pond margins, and slow streams. It can be collected legally for aquarium use in many areas. The species is closely related to L. palustris and the two hybridize freely, producing offspring with intermediate traits. Many plants sold as one species may be the hybrid.
Outdoor pond use
- USDA zones
- 6–11 (winter low around -23°C or warmer)
Care notes
One of the easiest red-green stem plants for beginners. Moderate light produces the red-green gradient that makes this species popular; under low light, the red fades to olive-brown. CO2 is not required but improves color intensity and growth rate. Plant stems in groups of 5-8. Growth is moderate to fast; trim tops weekly and replant to maintain a dense group. The cut lower stems produce side shoots, creating bushier growth with each trim cycle. Iron supplementation (liquid or root tabs) supports the red pigmentation. Nutrient demands are moderate; basic liquid fertilizer keeps the plant healthy. Temperature: 20–28°C. pH 6.0-8.0. Tolerates a wide range of hardness. One of the best 'first red plants' for keepers who want color without the demands of Rotala rotundifolia or Alternanthera. The red-green gradient looks natural and attractive without the need for the perfect high-tech balance that more demanding red plants require. Widely available from pet stores, online retailers, and hobby swaps. Propagation by cuttings is reliable and fast.