Ludwigia brevipes – Narrow-Leaf Red Stem Aquarium Plant

Ludwigia brevipes, commonly known as Long Beach Primrose-Willow, is an attractive North American aquatic stem plant valued for its narrow leaves, bushy growth, and beautiful reddish to orange-brown coloration. Native to the wetlands of the southeastern United States, this plant is an excellent choice for planted aquariums and aquascaping layouts.

When grown underwater, Ludwigia brevipes develops slender, lance-shaped leaves and produces numerous side shoots, creating a dense, bushy appearance. Its leaf colour varies depending on aquarium conditions, ranging from medium green under lower lighting to striking reddish or orange-brown tones under stronger light. This colour contrast makes it particularly attractive when combined with bright green aquatic plants.

Growing Conditions and Care

Ludwigia brevipes is relatively easy to grow and is suitable for aquarists looking to add colour and texture to a planted aquarium. For the best growth and coloration, provide strong lighting, a balanced supply of macro- and micronutrients, and additional CO₂ injection where possible.

Maintaining suitable nutrient levels, including relatively low nitrate and higher phosphate availability, may help enhance the reddish coloration of the shoot tips. The plant grows relatively quickly, so occasional trimming is recommended to maintain its shape and encourage dense, bushy growth. It can also be easily propagated by cutting healthy stems and replanting them in the substrate.

Aquascaping Uses

Ludwigia brevipes is particularly effective when planted in groups in the midground of a planted aquarium. In larger aquariums, it can also be used in the foreground to create colourful, compact plant clusters. Its reddish tones contrast beautifully with fresh green aquarium plants such as Micranthemum umbrosum and Bacopa australis.

In addition to submerged aquarium cultivation, Ludwigia brevipes can be grown in emersed setups, including paludariums and Wabi-Kusa arrangements, where it develops creeping growth and may produce small, light-yellow flowers.

If you are looking for a narrow-leaved stem plant with attractive colours and a naturally bushy growth habit, Ludwigia brevipes is a wonderful addition to your planted tank.

Product specifications

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