Ludwigia peruensis

🌿 Ludwigia peruensis

Ludwigia peruensis, often sold under the name Ludwigia peruensis / glandulosa, is a breathtaking stem plant known for its intense ruby-red to deep purple leaves. Featuring broad, lanceolate foliage and rich coloration, it serves as a spectacular focal point in planted aquariums.

🌱 Growth & Appearance

This species produces thick, sturdy stems with opposite, elongated leaves. Under optimal conditions, the upper foliage transforms into a vivid, velvety red and dark magenta tone that holds its color exceptionally well.

It grows at a slower, more controlled pace compared to other Ludwigia varieties, making it easier to maintain in a structured aquascape. Regular trimming encourages lateral shoots, helping to form a solid, striking bush.

💡 Lighting & CO₂

Ludwigia peruensis requires high lighting to display its deep ruby pigments and prevent the lower stems from losing foliage. Moderate to low light will cause the plant to dull in color and turn dark olive-green.

Pressurized CO₂ injection is highly recommended for consistent growth and leaf health. Providing regular liquid iron and macro nutrients helps maintain leaf size and prevents stunting at the growing tips.

🪴 Planting & Maintenance

Plant individual stems into a nutrient-rich aquasoil using tweezers, leaving enough room between stems for light to reach the bottom leaves. To propagate, trim the upper sections once stems reach your desired height and replant the tops directly into the substrate.

Because of its moderate growth rate, pruning is straightforward and less frequent, making shape maintenance simple over time.

🌿 Best Use

Ludwigia peruensis is an exceptional midground to background stem plant for high-tech nature aquascapes, Dutch-style layouts, and collector tanks.

Its deep magenta and ruby-red leaves create a bold visual contrast against bright green background plants, dark driftwoods, and carpeting species.

✨ Plant Profile

Difficulty: Moderate

Growth Rate: Medium

Lighting: High

CO₂: Recommended

Temperature: 20–28°C

Placement: Midground to Background

Growth Type: Stem Plant

Propagation: Stem Cuttings