Ludwigia palustris Live Aquarium Plant

Ludwigia palustris is a colourful freshwater stem plant that can develop attractive red to deep reddish tones when grown under suitable aquarium conditions.

It is a versatile choice for planted aquariums and aquascapes, where its upright growth and contrasting colour can be used through the midground or background depending on the size and trimming style of the tank.

At a Glance

• Scientific name: Ludwigia palustris
• Plant type: Stem plant
• Growth rate: Moderate to fast
• Position: Midground to background
• Lighting: Moderate to strong light for the best colour
• CO₂: Not always essential, but added CO₂ can improve growth, density and colour
• Propagation: Stem cuttings
• Difficulty: Suitable for many planted aquarium setups

Why Choose Ludwigia palustris?

One of the main attractions of Ludwigia palustris is its colour. Under stronger aquarium lighting, healthy stems can develop rich red tones that contrast strongly against green plants.

Under lower light, growth may become more open and the foliage can remain greener or less intensely coloured.

The plant also responds well to regular trimming. Cutting the upper stems encourages side shoots and helps create a bushier group over time.

Planting Ludwigia palustris

Separate the stems before planting and place them individually into the substrate with a small amount of space between each stem.

This allows light to reach the lower leaves and gives each stem room to develop.

For a fuller display, plant several stems together as a group rather than placing them as one tight bunch.

Lighting and Colour

Good lighting is one of the most important factors if you want Ludwigia palustris to show strong red colour.

With lower light, the plant can still grow, but the stems may stretch further between leaves and the colour may be less intense.

Added CO₂ and balanced fertilisation can further improve growth and colour, particularly in higher-energy planted aquariums.

Trimming and Propagation

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

The remaining lower stem can produce new side shoots, while the replanted cutting develops roots and continues growing.

Regular trimming is the best way to keep a group compact and dense.

Suitable for Planted Aquariums

Ludwigia palustris works particularly well alongside green stem plants, Cryptocoryne, Anubias and other contrasting foliage.

It can also be used as a colourful focal point in aquascapes where a strong red accent is wanted.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ludwigia palustris need CO₂?

Added CO₂ is not always essential, but it can improve growth, density and colour, especially when the plant is grown under stronger lighting.

How do I make Ludwigia palustris more red?

Strong healthy growth, good lighting and balanced nutrients are the main factors. Added CO₂ can also help the plant develop stronger colour and more compact growth.

How do I propagate Ludwigia palustris?

Cut a healthy upper stem and replant the cutting into the substrate. The original lower stem can also produce new side shoots after trimming.