Ludwigia glandulosa

Red Star Ludwigia Growing & Care Guide

Red Star Ludwigia, native to North American wetlands, is an exceptionally striking vertical stem species. Prized for its lanceolate leaves that grow in a tight whorl resembling deep red stars, it serves as a premier focal contrast in Dutch-style layouts, demanding high light and heavy substrate nutrients to develop its intense purple-red coloration.

Lighting High to Very High

Water Parameter Soft to Moderate (pH 6.0-7.2)

Substrate Nutrient-rich Aquasoil

Water Temp 20°C - 28°C

Toxicity Pet Friendly (Non-toxic)

Botanical macro photography of Red Star Ludwigia (Ludwigia glandulosa) - Plant AI care database

How to Identify Red Star Ludwigia

Red Star Ludwigia (Ludwigia glandulosa) has key botanical markers. Recognizing these features is crucial for successful aquascaping and thriving growth.

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Visual Shape & Growth: Upright vertical stems with spectacular, deep red star-shaped leaf rosettes at the growth nodes.
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Leaf Morphology: Slender lance-shaped leaves (approx. 1.5-2.5 inches long) showing deep ruby-red to purple coloration.
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Root & Anchoring Structure: Strong, vertical fibrous roots that penetrate deeply into the substrate.

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Complete Cultivation & Spawning Guide

Follow our detailed scientific water parameters and care guides to keep your Red Star Ludwigia thriving.

pH: 6.0 - 7.2, GH: 3 - 12 dGH. Prefers stable, clean, soft to moderately hard freshwater setups.

High. Pressurized CO2 injection (20-30 ppm) is highly recommended to support its vertical stem biomass expansion.

High to Very High. Intense full-spectrum lighting is mandatory to develop and sustain its gorgeous deep red color.

Propagate by cutting the top healthy stems and replanting. Cut mid-stems to force bushy lateral branching.

Requires heavy iron and micro-nutrient dosing. Maintain low nitrates and high phosphates to induce intense redness.

Requires rich aquasoil. Provide slow-release root tabs to feed its vertical root network.

Optimal temperature is 20°C to 28°C (68°F - 82.4°F). Sensitive to sudden cold water shocks during maintenance.

Requires steady water circulation. Good current prevents organic waste and algae spores from landing on broad leaves.

Its tough, thick leaves are completely fish-proof. Provides excellent hiding places for shrimp and breeding fish.

Fast growth makes it prone to hair algae under unstable parameters. Employ Amano Shrimps to keep delicate foliage clean.

Best placed in the midground or background. Plant stems individually with 1-inch spacing to allow light penetration.

Common Diseases & Treatment

Lower Leaf Drop

Symptoms: Mature leaves at the bottom of the stem turn black and drop off, leaving a bare stem.

Action: Caused by shade from the upper canopy. Prune the tops regularly and space stems further apart to allow light penetration.

Iron Deficiency (Chlorosis)

Symptoms: New leaves emerge pale pink or yellow instead of deep ruby-red.

Action: Dose comprehensive liquid iron or insert iron-rich root tabs near the root zone immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is my Red Star Ludwigia losing its red color?

A: Insufficient light or low iron levels are the main causes. It needs intense lighting and chelated iron dosing to maintain its star-like red appearance.

Q: How fast does it grow?

A: Under ideal conditions (high light, CO2, and rich nutrients), it is a moderate to fast grower, reaching 12+ inches in height.

Q: Can I grow it without CO2?

A: It can survive, but it will grow much slower, leaves will be smaller, and the color will fade to a dull bronze-green.

Q: Is it safe for community aquariums?

A: Yes! Red Star Ludwigia is completely non-toxic and safe for all freshwater fish, shrimp, and snails.