DIFFICULTY Easy

A forgiving choice for newer planted tanks.

LIGHT Moderate

Around 10 hours is a useful starting point.

CO₂ Recommended

Can grow without it, but responds noticeably to supplementation.

GROWTH Fast

High trimming needs.

PLANT OVERVIEW

About Ludwigia repens

A classic, fast-growing stem plant that turns reddish under good light.

Ludwigia repens is a popular beginner stem plant. It grows quickly and is a great way to introduce red colors to a low-tech aquarium.
Shrimp friendly Low-tech suitable High-tech suitable
CARE PROFILE

What this plant needs.

The useful numbers and practical notes, grouped around how you actually keep the plant.

TANK FIT

Placement + size

Primary placementBackground
Typical height8–20 in
Typical width4 in
Suggested minimum tank10 gal
Suggested tank height22 in+
LIGHT + CO₂

Energy demand

Ideal lightModerate
Photoperiod range8–12 hr
Approx. PAR20–80
Injected CO₂Recommended
CO₂ benefitModerate
NUTRITION

Where it feeds

Root feedingModerate
Water-column feedingModerate
Overall fertilizer demandModerate
Iron demandModerate
MicronutrientsLow
WATER

Useful parameter range

Temperature68–82°F
pH6–7.5
GH2–15 dGH
KH2–12 dKH
PLANTING

How to plant it.

Substrate: Any

Plant stems individually.

GROWTH + PROPAGATION

What to expect after planting.

Propagation

Stem cuttings

Acclimation

Adapts quickly.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What usually goes wrong.

Loses red color in low light.