Ludwigia Repens

Facts about Ludwigia Repens plant. The Ludwigia Repens is an amphibious aquatic plant. It is identified by presence of spade shaped leaves, dark green tops on the leaves and reddish bottoms. The Ludwigia Repens are also known as “Water Primose” and Red Ludwigia or Broad Leaf Ludwigia. The plant requires moderate lighting and bio-waste enriched substrate for its leaves to grow. Although Red Ludwigia serves as a background plant in small aquariums, it is mostly used a centerpiece in bigger ones. It is able to grow in both fully and partially submerged state.

Water Temperature of Ludwigia Repens

Temperature the Ludwigia Repens can live in 60 to 84 Fahrenheit (16 to 29 cel), ideal 72 to 78 degree F (22 to 25 cel) is the idea temperature for the Ludwigia Repens plant to survive. If source of water and environment is prone to colder circumstances, a water heater should be equipped inside the aquarium to maintain the temperature.

Lighting for Ludwigia Repens

The aquarium needs to be placed in a low traffic area, away from direct sunlight and drafts.

Plant Fertilizer for Ludwigia Repens

Fertilizer should only be added when it is required and also when the water is changed. The plant shows best growth when exposed to moderate fertilization.

Fish and plants

Larger fish may uproot the Ludwigia Repens by eating its roots. So, small fish are highly recommended. While buying fish for an aquarium that has Red Ludwigia in it, care should be given to the adult size and eating habits of the fish that one is going to buy.

Water Changes of Ludwigia Repens

It is recommended that 10 percent of the water of the aquarium should be changed every week. This stimulates a better growing environment than replacing the whole aquarium with fresh water. The aquatic plants and animals undergo minimal growth till the fresh water turns to the typical aquatic environment.

The regular partial change of water checks undesirable nutrient accumulation and excess nitrate removal.

Poor growth of Ludwigia Repens can be marked by spotting brown spots on leaves. Plants also turn pale yellow or yellow. Sometimes the stems loose leaves. Checking the aquarium water quality could be the first step for such a situation while consulting an aquatics specialist is recommended.