Ludwigia Rubin care guide
Ludwigia Rubin (Ludwigia repens 'Rubin') — medium light, 20-28 °C, pH 6-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
Ludwigia Rubin (Ludwigia repens 'Rubin') is a broad-leaved plant of the family Onagraceae, grown as an aquarium plant. Cultivar of Ludwigia repens with intense ruby-red leaves and undersides. One of the more colorful low-tech reds; thrives with iron supplementation and moderate light.
Taxonomy
- Family: Onagraceae
- Genus: Ludwigia
- Scientific name: Ludwigia repens 'Rubin'
- Common synonyms: Ludwigia repens 'Rubin'
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: medium
- 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.