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Ludwigia Repens
Ludwigia repens
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Onagraceae
📍 North & Central America
Ludwigia repens is one of the most accessible red plants for beginners, producing green-to-deep-red leaves depending on light levels and iron supplementation. It grows quickly and is easy to propagate from cuttings. Best used as a contrast plant among green-leaved species in the background.
Tank Mates
Beneficial algae grazers that won't damage plant leaves and help maintain tank cleanliness
Small, peaceful shrimp that won't uproot or consume the plant; add visual contrast with red coloration
Gentle algae-eating fish that won't disturb plants and help maintain water quality
Small, peaceful schooling fish that won't damage plants and create attractive visual contrast
Excellent companion plant with similar care requirements; creates layered foreground-to-midground aesthetic
Compatible stem plant with similar growth rate and nutrient needs; complements red coloration
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Pale or yellowing leaves, stunted growth, weak red coloration despite adequate lighting
Add comprehensive liquid fertilizer containing macronutrients (NPK) and micronutrients (iron, trace elements) 2-3 times weekly
Algae Overgrowth
Green or brown algae coating plant leaves and stems, reduced photosynthesis
Increase water changes, reduce lighting duration to 8-10 hours daily, add algae-eating shrimp or fish, manually remove affected leaves
Melting
Leaves becoming translucent, mushy stems, rapid leaf loss after planting
Ensure stable water parameters (pH 6.0-8.0), maintain consistent temperature, perform 25% water changes, trim affected portions and allow new growth
Poor Red Coloration
Leaves remain predominantly green despite adequate lighting
Increase light intensity to medium-high (8-10 hours daily), ensure iron supplementation, verify phosphate and potassium levels are adequate
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Beneficial
- light
- Medium to high (60–150 PAR for reddest colouration)
- placement
- Background
- substrate
- Standard or enriched substrate
- growth rate
- Moderate to fast
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–8.0
- nitrate
- <30 ppm
- hardness
- 2–20 dGH
- temperature
- 68–82°F (20–28°C)