How to grow Ludwigia senegalensis

Ludwigia senegalensis originates from Africa where it is widespread. It first entered the hobby under the name Ludwigia 'Guinea' and has since become popular in the hobby for its distinctive red leaves.

It is a small-sized stem plant with reddish leaves that, when grown in optimal conditions, have a distinct red web pattern. Ludwigia senegalensis is best used in the mid-ground - it does not grow compact enough to be a good background plant, but is a little too tall for the foreground.

Ludwigia senegalensis will show a range of growth forms depending on the growing conditions in the aquarium. In low light the leaves will grow more green with less even redness. In high light (with a higher red spectrum) the red will cover the entire leaf surface except for a central line. In poor conditions the leaves will be smaller with thinner stems. In richer conditions the plant will grow larger, fuller leaves. This size comparison is easily seen in the leaf to stem size - in lean conditions the stems will look very thick compared to the leaves. This plant responds very well to substrate feeding - having ammonia in the root zone is an easy way to grow fat leaves on this plant.

This plant is not very demanding in terms of CO2. It can grow very slowly in low tech tanks if the tank temperature is low (around 22 Celsius). Like most plants, it prefers at least some CO2 - and the injected levels should be kept stable. Sudden drops can stunt it. Poor fertiliser calibration (poor trace mix or over-dosing) can also easily stunt the tips; you will notice this symptom as very dark, stunted leaf tips.

Ludwigia senegalensis prefers slightly softer water, but this is not a strict requirement for growing this plant.

With poor quality of lighting and poor nutrient access the plant is more of an olive green rather than red.

Ludwigia senegalensis looks best in the middle ground. It forms side shoots but does not grow very densely, so it is best contrasted against a dark background.

Key success factors

• High light and adequate fertilization required to bring out strong coloration (higher red spectrum is helpful)

• Softer water is helpful, but not a necessity

• Stable CO2 levels - need not be high, but does best with some CO2 injection

• Nitrogen in ammonia format (best provided through substrate) gives fuller forms and broader leaves

Trimming and propagation

Trim top and replant as with any other regular stem plant. Bottom portions will sprout side shoots if healthy.