Ludwigia Mini Super Red care guide
Ludwigia Mini Super Red (Ludwigia palustris 'Mini Super Red') — medium light, 18-28 °C, pH 6-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
Ludwigia Mini Super Red (Ludwigia palustris 'Mini Super Red') is a broad-leaved plant of the family Onagraceae, grown as an aquarium plant. Compact selection of Ludwigia palustris that turns deep blood-red even at moderate light levels. One of the easiest red plants to grow; great for midground groupings in low-tech tanks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Onagraceae
- Genus: Ludwigia
- Scientific name: Ludwigia palustris 'Mini Super Red'
- Common synonyms: Ludwigia palustris 'Mini Super Red'
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 North America.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 18-28 °C (64-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 20 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Nutrient demand: medium
- Recommended placement: midground
- Typical trim interval: 14 days
Placement
In aquascapes this plant suits the midground. 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.