TC – Ludwigia Glandulosa

Introduction: Introduce a burst of color to your aquarium with Ludwigia Glandulosa, a stunning plant known for its vibrant red and purple hues. This plant adds a dramatic and eye-catching focal point to any aquascape, making it a popular choice for aquarists looking to create a visually striking underwater environment.

Origin: Ludwigia Glandulosa is native to North America, specifically found in the southeastern United States. It typically grows in slow-moving or still waters, such as ponds, marshes, and ditches, where it can receive ample sunlight.

Scientific Name: The scientific name of this vibrant plant is Ludwigia glandulosa.

Lighting Requirements: Ludwigia Glandulosa thrives under high lighting. Providing 8 to 12 hours of intense light per day will bring out its brilliant red and purple coloration. In lower light conditions, the plant may turn green and lose its vivid hues.

Care Level: With a care level of 6 on a scale of 1 to 10, Ludwigia Glandulosa requires some experience to maintain its color and growth. It is best suited for intermediate to advanced aquarists who can provide the specific conditions it needs to thrive.

Preferred Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C)
• pH Level: 5.5 to 7.0
• GH Level (General Hardness): 3 to 8 dGH
• KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 5 dKH

Placement: Ludwigia Glandulosa is best placed in the midground or background of your aquarium. Its tall, upright growth and vivid colors create a striking contrast with green plants, adding depth and dimension to your aquascape. Grouping several stems together will enhance its visual impact.

Growth Rate: This plant has a slow to moderate growth rate. Regular trimming and replanting of cuttings will help maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth, contributing to a more robust and colorful display.

CO2 and Fertiliser: Supplemental CO2 is highly recommended for Ludwigia Glandulosa to maintain its vibrant coloration and promote healthy growth. Regular liquid fertilization, especially with iron and other trace elements, will help support its bright red and purple hues.

Potential Problems: Ludwigia Glandulosa can be sensitive to water quality and lighting conditions. Without sufficient light, CO2, and nutrients, it may lose its coloration, become leggy, or experience slow growth. Ensuring optimal conditions will keep this plant thriving and colorful.

Compatible Fishes: Ludwigia Glandulosa pairs well with a variety of peaceful fish species. Suitable tankmates include:

• Neon Tetras
• Discus
• Angelfish
• Gouramis
• Shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp)

Other Suitable Plants: To create a balanced and visually appealing aquascape, consider pairing Ludwigia Glandulosa with these complementary plants:

• Rotala rotundifolia
• Alternanthera reineckii
• Bucephalandra species
• Java Fern
• Cryptocoryne species

Tropical or Cold Water? Ludwigia Glandulosa thrives in tropical water conditions, with a stable temperature range between 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C) being ideal for its growth and coloration.

What Fish Can Eat It? Most fish do not typically consume Ludwigia Glandulosa. However, certain herbivorous or larger species might occasionally nibble on its leaves. In a well-maintained community tank, it generally remains safe from being eaten.

A Fun Fact: Ludwigia Glandulosa is prized in the aquascaping community for its ability to add vibrant red and purple tones to a tank, creating a striking contrast with green plants. Its coloration becomes more intense with proper lighting and CO2, making it a rewarding plant for aquarists who enjoy creating visually stunning aquascapes.