Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ludwigia ovalis
IntermediateLudwigia ovalis
A stem plant native to Japan (Japanese name Mizuyukinoshita) whose rounded oval leaves turn pink to orange under water. Its leaves are alternate, one per node, which separates it from the similar Ludwigia repens and L. palustris.
About
Ludwigia ovalis (Onagraceae), known in Japan as Mizuyukinoshita, is a perennial native to Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, Korea, China and Taiwan, growing on the margins of lakes and ponds and in marshes, and also under water. Emersed stems creep and root at the nodes; submersed they grow obliquely to upright. The rounded oval leaves are about 0.5–3 cm long and turn pink to orange under water, and it is popular because it is easier than most pink plants. Similar L. repens and L. palustris have opposite leaves (two per node), while L. ovalis has alternate leaves (one per node). Those two are alien species listed as Priority Control species in Japan's alien species list, unlike this native plant. Emersed plants bear inconspicuous petal-less flowers in the leaf axils. It grows well in medium to strong light; CO2 is optional but makes growth stronger and faster. Limiting nitrate and phosphate deepens the colour, and iron supplementation also helps. It stays fairly low, so it suits the midground. It is a relatively recent aquarium plant and is sold by specialist shops in Japan.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Ludwigia ovalis
The Ludwigia ovalis grows to Low-growing stem plant; leaves 0.5–3 cm long.
Temperature & humidity for the Ludwigia ovalis
The ideal temperature for the Ludwigia ovalis is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
East Asia (Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu in Japan, Korea, China, Taiwan)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
Low-growing stem plant; leaves 0.5–3 cm long
Temperature
22〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
CO2 optional; iron and trace elements improve colour
Growing Tips
Lighting
Grows well in medium to strong light. Emersed culture needs near-direct sunlight and very high humidity.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 is optional but speeds and strengthens growth. Lean nitrate and phosphate plus added iron give deeper colour.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–26°C in soft to moderately soft water (KH 1–7°dKH) at pH 4.5–7.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant stems in the substrate; its low habit suits the midground.
Trimming & Propagation
Propagate by replanting side shoots or tops.
Cautions
It is easily confused with L. repens and L. palustris (both alien species), which have opposite leaves. Never release plants into the wild.
Ludwigia ovalis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Ludwigia ovalis?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Ludwigia ovalis?
The ideal temperature for Ludwigia ovalis is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Ludwigia ovalis get?
The mature size of Ludwigia ovalis is Low-growing stem plant; leaves 0.5–3 cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Ludwigia ovalis?
Ludwigia ovalis: watering & fertilizer — CO2 optional; iron and trace elements improve colour. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Ludwigia ovalis?
The price of Ludwigia ovalis varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act, imports of any Ludwigia plant need a species-name certificate, but growing and selling within Japan is not restricted. Ludwigia grandiflora (a Specified Invasive Alien Species) is a different species. This species is native to Japan. Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act) / Ministry of the Environment: alien species list, plants (2nd ed.)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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