Ludwigia Glandulosa

About Ludwigia Glandulosa

Ludwigia Glandulosa is one of the most striking red stem plants available for freshwater aquariums. Renowned for its deep burgundy, crimson, and purple foliage, this premium species creates dramatic contrast against green plants and is a favourite among aquascapers looking to add vibrant colour and texture to high-end planted aquariums.

Native to wetlands and slow-moving waterways in the southeastern United States, Ludwigia Glandulosa develops upright stems with broad, lance-shaped leaves that become increasingly intense in colour under strong lighting and optimal growing conditions. With sufficient CO₂, nutrient-rich substrate, and regular fertilisation, the foliage develops rich wine-red to deep purple tones that make it a true centrepiece in any aquascape.

Ludwigia Glandulosa thrives in nutrient-rich aquariums with moderate to high lighting and performs best with CO₂ injection. While it can survive in lower-tech setups, growth will be slower, and the vibrant red colouration may become muted. Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and allows the plant to be propagated easily by replanting healthy stem cuttings.

Its bold colour and upright growth make it ideal for background planting in smaller aquariums or midground placement in larger layouts, particularly in Dutch-style aquascapes and Nature Aquariums.

Elegant, colourful, and highly rewarding to grow, Ludwigia Glandulosa is an exceptional choice for aquascapers wanting a dramatic splash of red.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Ludwigia glandulosa

Common Name

Ludwigia Glandulosa

Origin

Southeastern United States

Plant Type

Stem Plant

Growth Rate

Moderate

Difficulty

Intermediate

Lighting

Moderate to High (High light recommended for best colour)

CO₂ Required

Recommended

Temperature

20–28°C

pH

6.0–7.5

Water Hardness

2–12 dGH

Placement

Midground to Background

Suitable For

Nature aquariums, Dutch aquascapes, high-tech planted aquariums, and freshwater community tanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ludwigia Glandulosa require CO₂?

CO₂ is not absolutely required, but it is highly recommended. CO₂ supplementation produces faster growth, stronger stems, and much richer red and purple colouration.

Why isn't my Ludwigia Glandulosa turning red?

The plant requires high lighting, adequate iron and micronutrients, and stable CO₂ to achieve its deepest burgundy and purple colours. Under lower light, the leaves often remain greenish or bronze.

How do I propagate Ludwigia Glandulosa?

Simply trim healthy stems and replant the cuttings into the substrate. New roots will quickly develop from the stem nodes.

Is Ludwigia Glandulosa suitable for beginners?

It is better suited to intermediate aquascapers. While not difficult to keep alive, achieving its best colouration requires strong lighting, good fertilisation, and stable aquarium conditions.

Can Ludwigia Glandulosa grow in low-tech aquariums?

Yes, but growth will be slower, and the plant is unlikely to develop the vibrant red and purple colours that make it so popular.

Common Mistakes

Insufficient lighting

Low lighting produces pale green or bronze leaves and weak, elongated growth.

Lack of nutrients

Regular dosing of iron and comprehensive liquid fertilisers helps maintain vibrant colour and healthy growth.

Not trimming regularly

Frequent trimming encourages bushier growth and prevents the lower portions of the stems from becoming bare.

Planting stems too closely

Allow adequate spacing between stems to improve light penetration and water circulation.

Unstable CO₂ levels

Fluctuating CO₂ can slow growth and encourage algae on the leaves. Stable supplementation delivers the best results.