Stoffels Ludwigia Palustris ‘Super Red’

Stoffels Plant – Ludwigia Palustris ‘Super Red’

Overview

Ludwigia ‘super red’ has been a popular plant in the hobby because it is easy to grow and will easily develop a nice red colour compared to more fussy plants such as Rotala macrandra. The leaves are completely red both above and below. This plant will grow in a wide range of conditions; it is not particularly fussy about water parameters but does require higher light conditions to show good colouration. As a fast grower that is not picky about water parameters, it is a good indicator plant for nutrient levels, which can be supplied either at the root zone or in the water column.

It will grow tall over time and is best used in the middle or background. It should be regularly pruned to form a nice canopy – left to its own devices it tends to grow untidily. As the leaves are loosely formed, larger, bushier clumps give a much better visual effect than individual stems.

Key Features

• Beautiful red leaves:  Will improve with more light and CO₂
• Moderate to Low Maintenance: This plant is relatively easy to care for and adapts well to a variety of water conditions, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
• Ideal for Midground and Background Planting: The tall stems make it a great choice for the midground or background, where it can create a lush, red backdrop.

Care Requirements

• Lighting: This is a light plant that is naturally quite red. Around 70-80 umols of PAR should be sufficient to produce good colouration. Higher PAR levels will result in more horizontal and faster growth.
• CO₂: The presence of at least some CO₂ (10ppm+) improves colouration and allows the plant to branch out more, resulting in denser bushes after repeated pruning.
• Nutrition: Higher nutrient levels result in more branching and side shoots. Low nutrient levels result in smaller growth forms and less bushy growth.
• Trimming: Regular trimming to maintain bushier form.

Planting Tips

• Substrate Planting: Plant in nutrient-rich substrate to encourage strong root development and healthy growth.
• Foreground to Midground Placement: It will grow tall over time and is best used in the middle or background
• Propagation: Propagates via stem cuttings