Ludwigia Repens 'Rubin'

About Ludwigia Repens 'Rubin'

Ludwigia Repens 'Rubin' is a stunning red stem plant prized for its rich burgundy, ruby-red, and deep crimson foliage. It is one of the most popular Ludwigia varieties for aquascapers wanting a strong red accent without the demanding requirements of some more delicate red plants.

Its broad, rounded leaves grow along upright stems, creating a bold and colourful appearance. When planted in groups, Ludwigia 'Rubin' can form dense red bushes that provide excellent contrast against green carpeting plants, mosses, and natural hardscape.

Good lighting is important for maintaining its deep red colouration, while stable CO₂ and balanced nutrients encourage faster growth, stronger stems, and denser foliage. It is relatively adaptable and can be grown successfully in both low-tech and high-tech planted aquariums.

Regular trimming encourages branching and allows the plant to be shaped into a compact bush. Healthy stem cuttings can be replanted directly into the substrate, making propagation simple.

With its intense colour, attractive foliage, and relatively forgiving nature, Ludwigia Repens 'Rubin' is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquascapers.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Ludwigia repens 'Rubin'
Common Name: Ludwigia Repens 'Rubin' / Ludwigia Rubin
Plant Type: Stem Plant
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Lighting: Moderate to High
CO₂ Required: No — Recommended
Temperature: 20–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to Moderately Hard
Placement: Midground to Background
Suitable For: Nature Aquariums, Dutch aquascapes, planted community tanks, shrimp tanks, and high-tech aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Ludwigia Repens 'Rubin' require CO₂?

No. It can grow without CO₂, making it suitable for low-tech aquariums. CO₂ supplementation will improve growth rate, density, and overall colouration.

How do I keep Ludwigia 'Rubin' deep red?

Provide good lighting, consistent CO₂ where available, and balanced fertilisation. Its genetics naturally allow it to develop strong burgundy and red colouration.

How do I propagate Ludwigia 'Rubin'?

Cut healthy stems above a leaf node and replant the tops into the substrate. The remaining stems will usually produce new side shoots.

Is Ludwigia Repens 'Rubin' suitable for beginners?

Yes. It is relatively easy to grow and is a good choice for aquarists wanting to introduce red plants into their aquarium.

How often should I trim it?

Trim the stems when they become too tall or begin shading the lower growth. Regular pruning encourages branching and creates a fuller, bushier group.

Common Mistakes

Insufficient lighting
Very low light can result in greener foliage and weaker colouration.

Unstable CO₂
Fluctuating CO₂ can slow growth and contribute to algae problems.

Planting stems too closely
Leave space between stems so light can reach the lower leaves and water can circulate.

Poor nutrient availability
Regular fertilisation helps maintain healthy growth and strong red colouration.

Allowing the plant to become overgrown
Regular trimming keeps the group compact and encourages attractive side branching.