Ludwigia palustris sp. Super red

Ludwigia palustris 'Super Red' is a spectacular cultivar of the widespread marsh plant Ludwigia palustris, renowned in the aquarium hobby for its intense, vibrant red coloration . This fast-growing stem plant is a popular choice for aquascapers looking to add a dramatic focal point and contrast to their planted aquariums .

Here are the detailed care requirements and characteristics of this striking plant:

Origin and Name

• Scientific Name: Ludwigia palustris 'Super Red' .

• Common Names: Super Red Ludwigia, Red Marsh Purslane .

• Origin: This is a cultivated variety (cultivar) selectively bred from the cosmopolitan species Ludwigia palustris for its enhanced red color . The parent species is found worldwide in various aquatic habitats .

Appearance

• Color: The plant's defining feature is its leaf color. Under optimal conditions, the oval, pointed leaves turn a deep, intense red to crimson, which can become a "breath-taking" or "blood-red" shade . With lower light, the leaves may appear more green with red undertones or veins .

• Size: It typically reaches a height of 20-50 cm (approx. 8-20 inches) and a width of 4-10 cm (approx. 1.5-4 inches), making it suitable for the midground to background of an aquarium .

• Leaves: The leaves are smaller than those of related species like Ludwigia repens, growing in opposite pairs on a thin, reddish stem .

Care Requirements

Lighting: High is essential for achieving the plant's signature intense red color. Under medium to low light, the leaves will become greener, and the plant may grow "leggy" with larger gaps between leaves .

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 20-28 °C (68-82 °F) .

• pH: 5.0 - 8.0, with an optimal range of 5.5-7.5 .

• Hardness: Adaptable from very soft to very hard water (2-15 dGH) .

Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate like aquasoil is highly recommended to support its fast growth and vibrant color. It can also be grown in inert gravel if supplemented with root tabs .

Nutrients: As a fast grower, it is a heavy feeder.

• Iron: Supplementation with iron is critical for maintaining the deep red hues .

• Macronutrients: It requires ample nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A lack of nutrients can cause leaves to turn yellow or green .

CO2: CO2 injection (20-30 mg/L) is strongly recommended to achieve the most compact growth, best coloration, and overall health. While it can survive in low-tech setups without CO2, its color and growth rate will be significantly reduced .

Maintenance and Propagation

• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast .

• Pruning: Regular trimming is required to maintain a bushy, compact shape and prevent the lower leaves from dropping off due to lack of light. Use aquascaping scissors to trim the top portions .

• Propagation: It is very easy to propagate. Simply take a healthy stem cutting (10-15 cm long) and replant it into the substrate. The cutting will quickly develop roots, and the original plant will grow new side shoots from the cut point .

Aquascaping Uses

• Placement: Ideal as a midground or background plant .

• Focal Point: Its intense red color makes it an excellent "eye-catcher" or focal point, creating a stunning contrast against green plants and hardscape elements like dark wood or rocks .

• Styling: Well-suited for Dutch-style and nature-style aquascapes . It can be planted in groups to create a dramatic, bushy effect .

• Compatibility: It is safe for all aquarium inhabitants, including shrimp and community fish like tetras and rasboras .

Quick Reference Care Summary