Ludwigia palustris Marsh Seedbox

Ludwigia palustris is one of the most cosmopolitan aquatic plants, found across Europe, North America, Africa, and Asia in marshes, ponds, and slow waterways. In aquariums it is appreciated for its broad temperature and pH tolerance, its ability to grow under modest light without CO2, and its tendency to develop reddish leaf undersides under better conditions. It is a reliable workhorse for aquarists who want a colourful stem plant without demanding water chemistry.

Light: Low to medium (15–50 PAR); grows green in low light, redder in medium light. CO2: Not required; optional CO2 at 10–20 mg/L accelerates growth. Fertiliser: Weekly balanced liquid fertiliser; highly tolerant of nutrient variation. Planting: Background groups of 5–9 stems spaced 2–3 cm; trim every 2–3 weeks. Growth: Moderate; 15–30 cm; adaptable and resilient to environmental changes.