Ludwigia Dark Red – Ludwigia repens Hybrid
Ludwigia Dark Red is a striking freshwater aquarium stem plant known for its deep red to burgundy leaves. Its bold coloration adds dramatic contrast against green aquarium plants, making it a favorite choice for aquascapes that need rich color, depth, and visual impact.
This colorful stem plant is best used as a midground or background accent plant. Ludwigia Dark Red grows best with medium to high lighting, steady nutrients, and optional CO2 injection. With regular trimming, it can form dense, bushy clusters that stand out beautifully in planted aquariums.
Key Features
- Deep red to burgundy aquarium stem plant
- Adds bold color contrast to planted tanks
- Great for midground or background placement
- Can be trimmed and replanted for bushier growth
- Excellent accent plant for aquascapes
- Safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Ludwigia repens hybrid
- Common Name: Ludwigia Dark Red
- Plant Type: Stem aquarium plant
- Placement: Midground to background
- Lighting: Medium to high
- Temperature: 72–82°F
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Care Level: Moderate
- CO2: Recommended for best growth and coloration
- Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate recommended
Tank Placement
Ludwigia Dark Red works best as a midground or background accent plant. Plant stems in small groups with a little space between each stem so light can reach the lower leaves and encourage fuller growth.
Its red and burgundy tones look especially striking when planted near bright green stem plants, carpeting plants, driftwood, or natural stone.
Lighting, CO2 & Nutrients
Ludwigia Dark Red develops its strongest coloration under medium to high lighting. Lower lighting may result in greener growth, slower development, or less intense red tones.
CO2 injection is recommended for the best growth, stronger stems, and deeper coloration. This plant also benefits from steady fertilization, including nutrients that support red plant coloration. A nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs can also help improve overall growth.
Trimming & Propagation
Trim Ludwigia Dark Red regularly to encourage bushier growth and maintain the desired shape. Healthy stem cuttings can be replanted into the substrate to create fuller clusters or expand the plant into other areas of the aquarium.
Regular trimming also helps prevent the lower leaves from becoming shaded in dense plantings.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Colorful planted aquariums
- Midground to background accents
- Dutch-style aquascapes
- High-light freshwater planted tanks
- Community fish aquariums
- Shrimp tanks and fry cover
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ludwigia Dark Red require CO2?
CO2 is not always required, but it is recommended for faster growth, stronger stems, and deeper red coloration.
Can beginners grow Ludwigia Dark Red?
Yes, beginners can grow it with good lighting, steady nutrients, and regular trimming. It is best considered a moderate-care plant.
How often should Ludwigia Dark Red be trimmed?
Trim as needed to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. Fast-growing stems may need more frequent trimming in high-light setups.
Is Ludwigia Dark Red safe for shrimp and fish?
Yes. Ludwigia Dark Red is safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish, and it provides cover for fry and small tank inhabitants.
Where should I place Ludwigia Dark Red in my aquarium?
It works best as a midground or background accent plant where its dark red leaves can stand out against green plants.
Why is my Ludwigia Dark Red turning green?
Lower lighting, limited nutrients, lack of CO2, or shading can reduce red coloration. Medium to high light and steady fertilization help improve color.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Ludwigia Dark Red is a beautiful aquarium stem plant for aquarists looking to add deep red and burgundy color to freshwater planted tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, freshwater fish, shrimp, and aquarium supplies.
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These Ludwigia are super health and Im hoping to see them do great in my tank!
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