Ludwigia Inclinata

Ludwigia inclinata is a stunning aquatic plant known for its vibrant colours, especially its striking orange or red hues. It's a bit more demanding than some other Ludwigia species but can become a beautiful centerpiece in a well-maintained aquarium. Here’s a guide for taking care of Ludwigia inclinata:

Lighting:

• High lighting is crucial for Ludwigia inclinata to maintain its bright coloration.
• Intense light helps the plant develop its signature orange, red, or yellow tones, especially in the top parts of the plant.
• Aim for at least 8–10 hours of bright light per day.

CO2 Requirements:

• CO2 injection is highly recommended for Ludwigia inclinata to thrive and display its vibrant colours.
• While the plant can survive without CO2, it may not grow as robustly, and its colours will be less intense.
• CO2 levels around 20–30 ppm is ideal for optimal growth.

Water Parameters:

• pH: 6.0–8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Temperature: 22–28°C
• Water hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, GH of 3–12 dGH is preferred.

Nutrient Requirements:

• Ludwigia inclinata is a heavy feeder, especially in high-light environments.
• Regular fertilization with both macro and micronutrients is necessary. Pay special attention to iron and potassium to prevent deficiencies.
• Use root tabs if the substrate lacks nutrients, and provide liquid fertilizers regularly to support healthy growth.

Substrate:

• A nutrient-rich substrate, such as aqua soil, helps promote strong root development and healthy growth.
• Fine-grain substrates allow the roots to anchor securely.

Growth and Pruning:

• Ludwigia inclinata can grow quite tall, making it an excellent background plant in large tanks.
• Regular trimming is important to maintain a bushy appearance and prevent the plant from overshadowing others.
• Trimming the tops of the plant encourages side shoots, making it more compact and full.

Placement:

• Due to its size and height potential, Ludwigia inclinata is best suited for the background or as a focal plant in a larger aquarium.
• It pairs beautifully with contrasting green plants like Rotala or Java Fern.

8. Propagation:

• Ludwigia inclinata is easy to propagate through cuttings. Cut a healthy stem and replant it into the substrate.
• The cuttings will quickly develop roots and grow into new plants.

9. Flow and Filtration:

• It prefers moderate water flow, which helps deliver nutrients but does not overwhelm the delicate stems and leaves.
• Ensure good circulation to avoid nutrient dead zones in the tank.

Common Issues:

• Colour fading: If the plant’s vibrant colours start fading, it’s usually a sign of insufficient light or a lack of CO2.
• Slow growth: Can be caused by a nutrient deficiency, especially iron or nitrogen. Adjust your fertilization schedule accordingly.
• Leggy growth: If the plant becomes sparse or leggy, it’s a sign of low light. Increase the light intensity to promote denser growth.

With the right conditions, Ludwigia inclinata can be a showstopper in any aquarium, displaying rich, bold colours that add depth and vibrancy to the aquascape.

An interesting fact about Ludwigia inclinata is that its colour can dramatically change based on the environment it’s grown in. Under high light and CO2 conditions, the plant exhibits brilliant shades of orange, red, or even pink. However, in lower light conditions, it tends to stay more green or yellow. This colour variability allows aquarists to manipulate the plant’s appearance by adjusting the lighting, CO2, and nutrients, making it a dynamic and adaptable plant for creating vibrant aquascapes.