Description
Ludwigia ovalis is a gorgeous and easy-to-grow aquarium stem plant loved for its smooth oval leaves and striking color transformation. Under moderate lighting, the leaves appear green with a soft orange tint. But when grown under high light and CO₂, they turn into vibrant shades of pink, orange, and red, making Ludwigia ovalis a showstopper in any planted aquarium.
This adaptable Ludwigia aquarium plant grows quickly and provides excellent vertical structure for aquascapes. Perfect for midground to background placement, it blends beautifully with green and red plants, bringing warmth, color balance, and natural movement to your aquascape. Its resilience and versatility make it one of the best beginner-friendly red stem plants for both low-tech and high-tech setups.
At our Splashy Fish tropical fish store, our Ludwigia Ovalis and other aquarium plants are carefully selected and packed with love! Visit us to buy them online or at our aquarium store in Virginia for a wide selection of freshwater fish for sale, betta fish for sale, freshwater shrimp for sale, and aquarium supplies.
Why Choose Ludwigia Ovalis?
Beautiful color gradient: Ranges from green to pinkish-red depending on light.
High adaptability: Thrives in low to high light aquariums.
Fast-growing & hardy: Perfect for both beginners and experienced aquascapers.
Midground to background versatility: Adds depth and texture to aquascapes.
Safe for all freshwater species: Excellent cover for shrimp and small fish.
Easy propagation: Simply trim and replant cuttings for quick regrowth.
How to Plant Ludwigia Ovalis in Your Aquarium
Rinse the plant gently to remove any gel or debris before planting.
Trim lower leaves and insert stems 1–2 inches deep into the substrate.
Space stems slightly apart to allow light and water flow between them.
Provide moderate to high lighting for vibrant pink and red coloration.
Trim regularly and replant healthy cuttings to maintain bushy growth.
Tip: For the brightest colors, use CO₂ injection, strong lighting, and iron-rich fertilizers. Under optimal conditions, Ludwigia ovalis red displays its most stunning hues.
How to Care for Ludwigia Ovalis
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
Lighting: Moderate to high (25–60 PAR). Brighter light produces deeper red tones
CO₂: Optional. CO₂ promotes denser growth and richer coloration
Fertilization: Benefits from liquid fertilizers rich in iron and trace minerals
Placement: Midground or background in freshwater aquariums
