Ludwigia arcuata Needle Leaf

Ludwigia arcuata is native to the southeastern United States and is one of the most slender-leaved Ludwigia species available in the hobby. Its very narrow, pointed leaves are bright green in low to medium light but transition to orange and deep red when given high light and iron supplementation. The fine leaf texture provides attractive contrast against broad-leaved plants. It is moderately easy to grow and appreciates CO2 to maintain compact growth and vivid colour.

Light: High (60–100 PAR); essential for orange-red colouration; green in lower light. CO2: Beneficial at 15–25 mg/L; compact growth and better colour with CO2. Fertiliser: Weekly micronutrients and iron; ensure adequate potassium for healthy growth. Planting: Background groups of 5–7 stems spaced 2 cm apart; trim every 2 weeks. Growth: Moderate; 20–40 cm; re-plant tops after trimming for density.