Ludwigia Repens (Water Primrose) – Live Freshwater Aquarium Plant
Ludwigia Repens, commonly known as Water Primrose, is a classic and reliable freshwater stem plant valued for its adaptability and beautiful color range. This amphibious species can grow both partially emerged and fully submerged, making it suitable for aquariums, paludariums, and planted tanks of all sizes.
When grown fully submerged, Ludwigia Repens displays spade-shaped leaves with olive-green tops and reddish to deep red undersides. With proper lighting and nutrients, the plant develops richer red tones while maintaining steady, bushy growth.
Key Features
Attractive Dual-Tone Leaves:
Green to olive leaf tops with red to reddish-brown undersides create natural color contrast.
Medium to Fast Growth Rate:
Grows quickly under stable conditions and responds well to trimming.
Beginner-Friendly & Hardy:
Adapts easily to a wide range of freshwater parameters.
Amphibious Growth Habit:
Can grow submerged or partially emerged, offering versatile use.
Natural Aquarium Benefits:
Provides shelter for fish and invertebrates while absorbing excess nutrients.
Care Instructions
Lighting
Medium to high lighting is recommended. Stronger lighting enhances red coloration.
Water Conditions
• Temperature: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
CO₂ & Fertilization
CO₂ is optional, not required. Supplemental CO₂, iron-rich fertilizers, and trace elements will improve growth rate and color intensity.
Placement
Best suited for midground or background planting. Looks most effective when planted in groups.
Propagation
Propagation is simple and beginner-friendly. Trim healthy stems and remove leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches. Replant the cuttings into substrate, where new roots will form from the lowest node.
Aquarium Benefits
Ludwigia Repens helps maintain aquarium balance by absorbing excess nutrients and reducing algae growth. Its dense foliage offers natural hiding and resting areas for fish, shrimp, and other invertebrates.
Perfect For
• Beginner and intermediate aquarists
• Midground and background aquascaping
• Freshwater community tanks
• Planted aquariums with medium to high lighting
• Low-tech or high-tech aquarium setups
Why Choose Ludwigia Repens?
• Classic, time-tested aquarium plant
• Easy to grow and propagate
• Adjustable color from green to red
• Ideal for natural and planted aquascapes
Important Notes
Live aquarium plants naturally vary in size, color, and leaf shape. Red coloration depends on lighting, nutrient availability, and CO₂ levels. Some leaf melt may occur during acclimation as the plant adjusts to new water conditions. Images are for reference only and may not represent the exact plant received.
🌱 Care & Resources
Browse more: Stem Plants · All Aquarium Plants
📖 Care guides: Stem Plants: Essential Guide for Aquarium Success · Rotala: A Splash of Color for Your Aquarium
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