Ludwigia glandulosa

Ludwigia glandulosa key facts

Growing Difficulty

Intermediate

Lifespan

Perennial; maintained by cuttings

Size

15–40 cm tall, 5–12 cm wide submerged

Temperature

22〜25℃

Watering

Needs CO2 and trace elements including iron

Lighting

Needs strong light; without it the leaves turn green and fall. Even in strong light lower leaves tend to drop.

CO2 & Fertilizer

Needs CO2 (roughly 20–40 mg/L) and ample trace elements including iron; nitrate (5–25 mg/L) and phosphate should be present.

Water Temperature & Quality

Optimum 22–25°C in softish water (KH 2–10°dH, pH 5–7).

Substrate & Attachment

Plant stems individually and spaced; the upright growth suits rows.

Trimming & Propagation

It barely branches underwater, so top it to induce side shoots; the tops can be replanted.

Cautions

As a Ludwigia it needs a species-name certificate on import to Japan; do not confuse it with the specified invasive L. grandiflora. Never release plants into the wild.

About Ludwigia glandulosa

Ludwigia glandulosa is a North American stem plant whose leaves turn vivid wine-red to reddish-purple under strong light. Its upright stems branch little, making it a popular choice among intermediate aquarists.

7 things to know before growing Ludwigia glandulosa

1. 1Give It Strong Light

   Strong lighting is what brings out the plant's signature wine-red to reddish-purple color. Without enough light, the leaves fade back to green and the lower leaves tend to drop, so place it where it gets plenty of light and isn't shaded by neighboring plants.

2. 2CO2 Injection Is Needed

   This stem plant needs strong light and CO2 injection as well, at roughly 20-40 mg/L. Supply plenty of trace elements including iron, and keep some nitrate and phosphate available too, for stable growth and good coloration.

3. 3Use a Nutrient-Rich Substrate

   Since it also draws nutrients through its roots, a nutrient-rich substrate such as aqua soil helps keep the plant in good condition. When planting, bury the roots firmly so the stems don't float up.

4. 4Trim and Replant to Renew

   The underwater stems grow straight up with almost no branching, so once a stem gets tall, cutting the top and replanting it is an easy way to refresh the plant. As a perennial, regular trimming keeps its shape while letting you enjoy it long-term.

5. 5Watch Seasonal Water Temperature

   Being fully aquatic, its growth and coloration are affected by seasonal shifts in water temperature. Avoiding extremes and keeping the temperature stable year-round helps it stay in good condition.

6. 6Place It Mid- to Background

   Since it grows upright to about 15-40cm and stays fairly narrow underwater, it works well planted in groups in the midground to background of an aquascape. Planting it densely also makes the red coloring stand out more.

7. 7How to Spot a Healthy Plant

   When choosing a plant, look for one with intact lower leaves and vivid leaf color, which makes it easier to settle in after introduction. Straight stems with short internodes are a good sign that the plant was grown under plenty of light.

Frequently asked questions about Ludwigia glandulosa

Q.Why do the leaves stay green instead of turning red?

A.In most cases, this comes down to insufficient light. Ludwigia glandulosa develops its wine-red to reddish-purple color under strong lighting, and when light is lacking, the leaves revert to green and the lower leaves tend to drop. Adjusting the plant's position or lighting setup can often help.

Q.Is this a good plant for beginners?

A.This stem plant is generally considered suitable for intermediate keepers. If you're not yet comfortable managing lighting and water quality, it may help to gain experience with easier-to-grow plants first before taking this one on.

Q.How large does it grow?

A.Underwater, it typically reaches about 15-40cm in height and 5-12cm in width. Since it grows upright with little branching, trimming to match your tank's height makes it easier to manage.

Q.Is the lack of branching a sign of disease?

A.No, it isn't. Ludwigia glandulosa naturally grows with upright stems that branch very little, which is simply the normal growth habit of this plant.

Q.How can I propagate it?

A.As a perennial, it can be maintained and multiplied through cutting and replanting. Trimming the top of a stem and replanting it in the substrate lets it establish as a new plant.

Handy Growing Tools for Ludwigia glandulosa

Learn more about Ludwigia glandulosa in the encyclopedia

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