Ludwigia Meta care guide
Ludwigia Meta (Ludwigia 'Meta') — medium light, 20-28 °C, pH 6-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
Ludwigia Meta (Ludwigia 'Meta') is a broad-leaved plant of the family Onagraceae, grown as an aquarium plant. Hybrid Ludwigia with strong reddish-orange tones and slightly broader leaves than L. repens. Easy to grow and one of the most accessible red-leaved stem plants for low-tech setups.
Taxonomy
- Family: Onagraceae
- Genus: Ludwigia
- Scientific name: Ludwigia 'Meta'
- Common synonyms: Ludwigia palustris x repens
Habitat
Ludwigia is a cosmopolitan genus of stem plants in the evening-primrose family, growing in marshes, ditches and slow waters; several species develop intense red foliage under strong light and nutrient-rich conditions. In the Aquairi knowledge base this species is recorded from cultivated origin (nursery hybrid).
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 20-28 °C (68-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 40 cm
- Growth rate: fast
- Nutrient demand: medium
- Recommended placement: background
- Typical trim interval: 10 days
Placement
In aquascapes this plant suits the background. It is a midground-to-background stem plant grown in groups; high light, CO2 and adequate iron deepen the red and bronze tones, while shaded growth stays greener.
Propagation
This species is propagated by cuttings, with side shoots forming below the cut point to thicken the bush; lateral shoots can be detached and replanted.
Common issues
Pale or pinholed leaves point to micro-nutrient or iron deficiency; dropping lower leaves usually reflects shading within a dense stand, eased by thinning and stronger lighting.