Ludwiga Glandulosa

Known as both Ludwigia peruensis and Ludwigia glandulosa, Red Star Ludwigia is among the deepest red plants in the world when kept in optimal conditions!

Red Star Ludwigia (Ludwigia glandulosa AKA L. peruensis) is a very attractive plant that can achieve complete deep red coloration, even more so than most other Ludwigia species. It is also unique in that it does not produce side stems like its close relatives and instead will grow straight upward past the water line if it is not trimmed. Red Star Ludwigia requires more care than most Ludwigia species, but is not necessarily an expert-level plant. With correct care, it can be among the most rewarding freshwater plants to view!

Red Star Ludwigia is best placed in the middle ground and will look its best under strictly high lighting. It grows at a slow rate with the correct maintenance and care. CO2 supplementation in particular is required for Red Star Ludwigia to really thrive and flourish. High lighting is required for it to maintain its deep red coloration. It can be planted in the substrate and stems of excessive length can be trimmed, then the cuttings can be replanted to increase the bunch.  It can also be planted emersed in paludariums and viquariums.  

This listing is for the tissue culture form of Ludwigia glandulosa. Tissue cultures are superior to traditional forms of aquarium plants in many ways. They are produced in a completely sterile environment which eliminates the possibility of them carrying pest snails or algae spores. They have a shelf life (before introduction to the aquarium) of several months if properly maintained and they are housed in a nutrient gel until introduced to the aquarium. To introduce a tissue culture plant to the aquarium, simply rinse off as much nutrient gel as possible, then plant as usual. The nutrient gel will not harm your aquarium.  

What We Like About This Plant:

• Beautiful red coloration with proper care
• Moderately prolific and easy to prune
• Perfect for a middle ground highlight
• Does not produce side stems like many other Ludwigia species
• Rewarding challenge for the ambitious aquarist

Care Guidelines:

• Temperature: 68° - 82° F (20° - 28° C)

• pH: 5.5 - 8.0

• Lighting: High

• Origin: Indigenous to Middle and Southeastern United States, but cultivated in US nurseries

• Aquarium placement: Middle

• Care: Moderate to Difficult, CO2 supplementation is required for optimal growth