Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba' Live Aquarium Plant

Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba' is a striking fine-leaved freshwater stem plant known for its narrow whorled foliage and colourful yellow, orange, copper and red tones under good aquarium conditions.

This form originates from Cuba and is especially valued in aquascaping for its delicate texture, fast growth and ability to create a bright coloured accent through the midground or background. :chatgpt-content-reference{index="1"}

At a Glance

• Scientific name: Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba'
• Also sold as: Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Cuba'
• Common name: Cuban Ludwigia
• Plant type: Stem plant
• Growth rate: Fast
• Position: Midground to background
• Lighting: High
• CO₂: Strongly recommended
• Propagation: Stem cuttings
• Difficulty: Moderate

Colour and Growth

When grown submerged under strong lighting, Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba' develops long, narrow leaves arranged around the stem, with colours ranging from green and yellow through copper, orange and red.

Under weaker light or without adequate CO₂, growth can become greener, broader and less compact, with fewer leaves and slower development. :chatgpt-content-reference{index="2"}

Lighting and CO₂

This is not a low-light beginner plant.

For the best colour and compact growth, provide:

• Strong aquarium lighting.
• Consistent CO₂ injection.
• Balanced macro and micronutrients.
• Good water circulation.
• Enough space for the stems to develop without heavy shading.

Aquarium references consistently describe this form as responding particularly well to strong light, added CO₂ and balanced fertilisation. :chatgpt-content-reference{index="3"}

Planting Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba'

Separate individual stems before planting and space them slightly apart in the substrate.

This allows more light to reach the lower leaves and gives the plant room to branch as it establishes.

Several stems planted together can form a dense, fine-textured group, but avoid planting them so tightly that the lower growth becomes shaded.

Trimming and Propagation

Propagation is carried out using healthy stem cuttings.

When stems become too tall, cut the healthy upper section and replant it into the substrate.

This variety can respond poorly to repeated heavy trimming of old lower stems, so replanting healthy tops is often the better way to maintain an attractive group. :chatgpt-content-reference{index="4"}

Best Position in the Aquarium

Because of its height and fast growth, Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba' is best used through the midground or background of medium to larger planted aquariums.

The fine leaves and warm colour make it especially effective as a contrast against green stem plants, broad-leaved species and darker hardscape.

Browse our full range of live aquarium plants for more freshwater planting options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba' need CO₂?

CO₂ is strongly recommended. The plant can lose much of its compact form and colour without consistent CO₂, especially under stronger lighting.

How much light does Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba' need?

High light is preferred for strong colour and dense submerged growth.

What colour does Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba' become?

Under good conditions it can develop yellow, orange, copper and red tones, with young leaves often showing the strongest colour.

How do I propagate Ludwigia inclinata 'Cuba'?

Cut a healthy stem tip and replant it into the substrate. Replanting the strongest tops is often preferable to repeatedly cutting back old stems.