Ludwigia Crystal care guide
Ludwigia Crystal (Ludwigia sp. 'Crystal') — medium light, 20-28 °C, pH 5.5-7, CO2 recommended.
Overview
Ludwigia Crystal (Ludwigia sp. 'Crystal') is an aquatic plant of the family Onagraceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. It is typically grown under medium light with pressurised CO2 injection on nutrient-rich aquasoil. A tissue culture hybrid known for its delicate pinkish to translucent foliage. Under medium to high light, the leaves develop a soft rose-pink hue with lighter veins. More compact than most Ludwigia species, making it versatile for midground placement. Moderate nutrient demand keeps it accessible to intermediate-level aquarists.
Taxonomy
- Family: Onagraceae
- Genus: Ludwigia
- Scientific name: Ludwigia sp. 'Crystal'
- Common synonyms: Ludwigia sp. Crystal
Habitat
Ludwigia is a cosmopolitan genus of marsh plants (Onagraceae) that grow in shallow standing water, swamps and ditches across the Americas, Africa and Asia. Many species shift from green emersed growth to vivid red coloration once submersed under bright light. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from Cultivated hybrid.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: recommended
- Temperature: 20-28 °C (68-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 20 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
A background or midground stem plant. Bright lighting, CO2 and abundant macro and micro nutrients are required to develop and hold the red pigments characteristic of many Ludwigia forms. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground under medium light with pressurised CO2 injection, using nutrient-rich aquasoil.
Propagation
Propagated from cuttings: a healthy tip cutting of 8-10 cm is replanted in the substrate and roots within days. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: stem cuttings.
Common issues
A switch from intense red to green usually signals a drop in light intensity, iron deficiency or shading by surrounding plants; correcting lighting and macro/micro dosing restores colour.