Propagating Ludwigia 'Pantanal'

Propagation guide for the demanding Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Pantanal': cuttings, high light, strong CO2, iron and lean-nitrate dosing to keep its fiery pink-red color.

Overview

Ludwigia 'Pantanal' is a verticillate form of Ludwigia inclinata, a highly variable herb from Central and South America in the family Onagraceae. The verticillate varieties are among the most prized aquarium plants in the trade, and 'Pantanal' is the demanding showpiece: fine whorled leaves that glow fiery orange-red under intense light. It is propagated by stem cuttings.

Propagation Method (Cuttings)

Like all Ludwigia inclinata forms, 'Pantanal' is multiplied by replanting stem cuttings into the substrate, and the cultivar propagates true to the parent. Removing the apical bud by topping triggers lateral buds along the internodes, so both the replanted top and the rooted base branch out into a fuller stand.

Step-by-Step

Cut the top 5-10 cm from a vigorous, well-colored stem.
Strip leaves from the lowest 2-3 cm so the node sits clean in the soil.
Replant the cutting into nutrient-rich aquasoil with light spacing.
Leave the parent base to sprout new shoots from below the cut.
Grow out the new tops and repeat to expand the group quickly.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

'Pantanal' is a heavy feeder that tends to either boom or bust. It needs high light (100+ PAR at the substrate, better color toward 200-300), CO2 of 30 ppm and up, and soft water around 3 dKH or below. Regular all-round fertilization with iron and micronutrients deepens the red, and access to ammoniacal nitrogen improves both color and growth, so keep nitrate lean rather than heavy. In good conditions it can grow a couple of inches per day. It grows emersed or submersed in nature.

Trimming & Maintenance

Because growth is fast, trim often, about every 10 days. Top the stems, replant the colorful tops, and discard tired lower sections; aquatic stems regrow roots quickly after replanting. Avoid letting the bush overcrowd, since shaded lower leaves on this species melt readily.

Common Challenges

Stunting and melting almost always trace to insufficient CO2, light or unstable parameters.
Pale or green growth means more light, iron and leaner nitrate are needed for color.
Hard or alkaline water hampers it; aim for soft, slightly acidic conditions.