Source: Wikimedia Commons
Ludwigia Repens
BeginnerLudwigia repens
A popular stem plant that turns red-orange with adequate light and CO2.
Overview
Ludwigia repens is a stem plant in the family Onagraceae, native to North America. The leaf surface is green to olive-green, while the underside displays red to purplish coloration. The stronger the lighting, the more the entire leaf takes on a reddish-orange hue, with color expression and growth further enhanced by CO2 addition. As a relatively hardy red aquatic plant that grows without CO2, it has been a long-standing classic introduction plant for beginners. Growth rate is moderate, and dense bushes can be created through regular trimming and replanting. Regular addition of iron-containing liquid fertilizer makes the red color more vivid. When used in the background, it creates a beautiful accent in contrast with green plants.
Size of the Ludwigia Repens
The Ludwigia Repens grows to 15-30cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Ludwigia Repens
The ideal temperature for the Ludwigia Repens is 18〜30℃.
It adapts to a wide range of water chemistry, with a temperature tolerance of 18–30°C, making it an easy-to-manage robust aquatic plant.
Basic Info
Origin
North America
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
15-30cm
Temperature
18〜30℃
Growing Tips
Lighting
Grow under medium to high light; the stronger the light, the more the whole leaf turns reddish orange.
CO2 & Fertilizer
It grows without CO2, but injection improves colour and growth. Regular liquid fertilizer containing iron makes the red more vivid.
Water Temperature & Quality
A hardy plant that is easy to manage, tolerating a wide 18–30°C temperature range and adapting well to varied water conditions.
Trimming & Propagation
Growth is moderate. Trim regularly and replant the cut stems to form a dense bush.
Cautions
Leaves are green to olive on top and red to purple underneath; under weak light the red is hard to bring out. Contrast it with green plants in the background.
Ludwigia Repens FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Ludwigia Repens?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Ludwigia Repens?
The ideal temperature for Ludwigia Repens is 18〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Ludwigia Repens get?
The mature size of Ludwigia Repens is 15-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Ludwigia Repens?
The price of Ludwigia Repens varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 25, 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
Domestic law: The second edition of the Ministry of the Environment / MAFF Invasive Alien Species List for ecosystem damage prevention (published 11 September 2026) lists creeping primrose-willow (Ludwigia repens) as No. 84, a "priority control" alien species (防除推進外来種). If it invades areas important for biodiversity, such as national parks or habitats of endangered species, it is to be controlled. It is not a designated Invasive Alien Species, and growing or selling it is not legally restricted. Plants in cultivation are not subject to control, but do not discard them outdoors or let them escape with aquarium waste water or stem and leaf fragments (the list asks that listed species are never released into the wild). All species of the genus Ludwigia require a certificate identifying the species when imported into Japan (Invasive Alien Species Act, Art. 25). The related Ludwigia grandiflora (water primrose) is a designated Invasive Alien Species whose cultivation and sale are banned.
Sources: Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (Invasive Species Act) / CITES Appendix II listed plant taxa (family and genus level)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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