Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Pantanal' Care Guide
Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Pantanal' is a demanding South American stem plant (Onagraceae) with whorled pink-red leaves needing high light and CO2.
Overview
Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Pantanal' is a cultivar of the aquatic plant Ludwigia inclinata, family Onagraceae, native to Central and South America. The verticillate forms of this species, including 'Pantanal' and 'Cuba', are among the most highly prized aquarium plants in the trade, valued for their intense pink-red whorled foliage.
Taxonomy
- Family: Onagraceae
- Genus: Ludwigia
- Scientific name: Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Pantanal'
- Type: verticillate cultivar of L. inclinata
Habitat
Ludwigia inclinata is native to Central and South America, where it is usually found growing emersed or submersed on the beds of dried ponds or lakes. Its leaves transition from green at the base to orange/yellow with deep red on the crown, grow in opposing arrangement, and have a wavy texture.
Tank requirements
- Temperature: 22-28 °C
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 1-8 °dGH
- Lighting: high
- CO2: required
- Maximum height: about 40 cm
- Placement: background
Care and growth
This species is demanding. It prefers medium to high light and benefits from consistent micronutrient supplementation, and CO2 injection is highly recommended for its cultivation. As a verticillate form, 'Pantanal' needs intense light to keep its neon pink-red whorls and is generally considered one of the more difficult stem plants.
Propagation
New plants develop from stem cuttings replanted into the substrate.