Ludwigia Red (Unleaded) – Vibrant Aquarium Stem Plant for Midground & Background

Ludwigia Red (Unleaded) – Aquarium Plant Care & Profile

The Ludwigia Red (Unleaded) is a stunning stem plant prized for its brilliant red to orange leaves that bring bold color contrast to freshwater aquascapes. This variety is “unleaded,” meaning it is free from harmful lead plant weights, making it safer for aquariums with fish, shrimp, and snails. Perfect for midground to background placement, Ludwigia Red thrives under good lighting and creates a vibrant focal point in planted tanks.

🌊 Quick Facts:

• Scientific Name: Ludwigia repens (Red variant)
• Common Name: Ludwigia Red Unleaded
• Placement: Midground to background
• Lighting: Medium to high
• CO₂: Not required (but enhances color and growth)
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
• Height: 8–20 inches depending on conditions
• Care Level: Easy to moderate

✨ Why Choose Ludwigia Red (Unleaded)?

• Vivid red to orange coloration enhances aquascapes
• Safe “unleaded” version – no metal weights, shrimp & snail safe
• Adaptable and hardy for a wide range of aquarium setups
• Excellent for Dutch-style and high-contrast aquascaping layouts
• Provides shelter and grazing surfaces for shrimp and small fish

💡 Care Tips:
Plant stems individually in nutrient-rich substrate for best growth. Trim regularly to maintain bushy form and encourage side shoots. High light and CO₂ bring out the deepest red hues, while low-tech tanks will show greenish-red tones.

❓ Ludwigia Red (Unleaded) – FAQ

How do you keep Ludwigia Red bright red?
Provide medium to high lighting and CO₂ injection if possible. Nutrient-rich substrate and iron supplementation help intensify red coloration.

Is Ludwigia Red (Unleaded) safe for shrimp and snails?
Yes. The “unleaded” version means it is sold without lead plant weights, making it completely safe for shrimp, snails, and sensitive species.

Does Ludwigia Red need CO₂?
CO₂ is not required, but it greatly improves growth rate and enhances the red tones. In low-tech tanks, the plant may appear more greenish-red.

Where should I place Ludwigia Red in the aquarium?
Ludwigia Red is best suited for the midground to background, where its tall stems can create contrast and a vibrant backdrop.

How tall does Ludwigia Red grow?
With proper care, Ludwigia Red can reach 8–20 inches in height, depending on lighting, nutrients, and trimming.

Does Ludwigia Red need trimming?
Yes. Regular trimming keeps the plant bushy and encourages side shoots, making it fuller and more decorative.

Can Ludwigia Red grow in low light?
It will survive in low light, but the leaves will remain mostly green. Stronger light is needed for the intense red coloration.