Ludwigia brevipes

Scientific name: Ludwigia brevipes

Family: Onagraceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 15 - 30 cm (5.91 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 5.3 - 7

Recommended water hardness: 3 - 16°dGH (53.57 - 285.71ppm)

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Recommended temperature range: 20 - 26 °C (68 - 78.8°F)

Preferred propagation method: Cuttings

Native to: North America

Growth rate: Normal

Recommended substrate: Fine gravel

Lighting requirements: Bright

Ideal placement in tank: Midground

Common Name

Long Beach Primrose

Origin

Ludwigia brevipes is native to North America, especially the southeastern United States such as Florida, Texas, and Louisiana. It thrives along the edges of wetlands, ponds, and streams, often growing both submersed and emersed depending on water levels.

Growing Conditions

This species adapts well to aquarium life and prefers bright lighting to maintain compact growth and enhance coloration. Under ideal conditions, its leaves develop orange to reddish tones, especially when nitrate levels are kept low and phosphates are elevated. In lower light, the plant remains green and more elongated.

Ludwigia brevipes grows steadily when rooted in a nutrient-rich gravel substrate. Although CO₂ is not required, it encourages denser and more vibrant growth. This plant is suitable for both submerged and emersed cultivation, and may even produce small yellow flowers when grown emersed.

Planting Area

With its moderate height of 15 - 30 cm (5.91 - 11.81 inches), Ludwigia brevipes is ideal for the midground of most aquariums. It pairs beautifully with other colorful stem plants and adds vibrant contrast in aquascapes. Its fine leaves also offer refuge for small fish and fry.

Propagation

Ludwigia brevipes propagates easily via cuttings. To propagate, snip off a healthy stem or lateral shoot using sharp scissors. Remove the lower leaves and gently insert the bare stem into the substrate. Roots typically form within one to two weeks. With frequent trimming, the plant becomes bushier and fuller. Occasionally, it may also form lateral shoots, which can be separated and replanted.

Difficulty

This species is considered easy to medium in terms of care. While it's hardy and adaptable, achieving its most vibrant coloration and compact shape requires attention to lighting and nutrient balance. It is well-suited for hobbyists with some experience in plant care, especially those maintaining a fertilized tank.

Short Description

Ludwigia brevipes, also known as Long Beach Primrose, is a visually appealing stem plant with slender leaves and a bright orange to red hue when grown under high light. Native to North America, it grows both submerged and emersed in nature and can adapt well to aquarium environments. This species makes an excellent midground plant, is easy to propagate from cuttings, and thrives with regular trimming and fertilization. Its vibrant coloration and fine-leaved texture make it a standout feature in any planted aquarium.