Ludwigia repens 'Rubin'

Ludwigia repens 'Rubin' is a cultivar selected for exceptionally deep, uniform ruby-red pigmentation across both the upper and lower leaf surfaces, setting it apart from the standard L. repens where red is mostly confined to the underside. It is one of the most accessible red stem plants in the hobby, tolerating a wide range of water parameters and performing reasonably well even without CO2 injection, though CO2 intensifies the colouration considerably. Fast-growing and forgiving, it suits beginners and experienced aquascapers alike and is a staple in Dutch-style planted tanks. Regular trimming maintains a compact, bushy habit.

Light: Medium to high (30–50 PAR); lower light produces greenish leaves. CO2: Beneficial but not required; CO2 injection deepens ruby colouration significantly. Fertilisation: Regular macro and micro dosing; iron supplementation enhances red pigment. Placement: Background to midground; effective as dense colour columns in Dutch layouts. Propagation: Trim top 8–12 cm and replant; extremely fast to root and establish.