Plant Profile
Ludwigia Inclinata is a high-tech aquatic stem plant native to the tropical wetlands and river margins of Central and South America. Prized for its dramatic coloration and unique wavy leaf texture, its submerged foliage displays a stunning mix of vivid gold, warm orange, and fiery red hues along supple central stems. Fast-growing and voluminous, it easily reaches 6 to 20 inches in height. Best suited for experienced aquascapers, Ludwigia Inclinata requires high-intensity lighting, pressurized CO2, soft acidic water, and rich micronutrient dosing (especially iron) to maintain its vivid red and gold tones. Positioned in the midground or background of larger aquariums, its colorful, branching growth forms a showstopping centerpiece.
*Form Notice: Photos display this plant in both its emersed (above-water) and submerged forms. Depending on nursery availability and seasonality, you may receive this plant in either form. Learn more about what to expect by reading our guide on Emersed vs. Submerged-Grown Aquatic Plants.
Key Features & Benefits
- Dramatic foliage displays a vibrant spectrum of gold, orange, and ruby-red with wavy-edged leaves.
- Fast-growing stem species that branches readily after pruning to create thick, high-contrast midground or background bushes.
- High-tech collector plant that adds exceptional visual depth and color pop alongside lush green aquatic species.
Care & Planting Instructions
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Remove lead weight and cotton wrap (or foam) surrounding the base, then strip the lower inch of foliage so bare stems anchor cleanly into soil without rotting. *Ludwigia stems and leaves are fragile, so handle stems with care during preparation.
- Use fine-tip pinsettes to insert individual stems 1 to 2 inches deep into nutrient-rich aquarium soil.
- Provide high-intensity lighting and pressurized CO2 injection; consistent liquid fertilization rich in iron and essential micronutrients brings out the deepest red and gold hues. See our guide to growing red aquarium plants.
- Maintain stable water parameters and soft, slightly acidic conditions to prevent stem melting or leaf shedding.
- To propagate, trim main stem tops with sharp straight shears and replant trimmings directly into substrate. Read our trimming & propagation guide for details.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
| Attribute |
Specification |
| Scientific Name |
Ludwigia inclinata |
| Common Name(s) |
Ludwigia Inclinata |
| Family |
Onagraceae |
| Plant Type / Taxonomy |
Aquatic Stem Plant |
| Care Difficulty |
Advanced |
| Light Requirement |
High |
| CO2 Requirement |
Required (Essential for vibrant red/gold tones and rapid growth) |
| Placement / Usage |
Midground / Background Focal Point |
| Height / Size |
6–20”+ |
| Growth Rate |
Fast |
| Water Parameters |
pH 5.0–8.0 (Soft acidic water yields best results) |
| Propagation Method |
Cuttings (Cut stem tops or lateral shoots and replant) |
| Origin |
Central & South America |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I prep bunched Ludwigia Inclinata before planting?
Remove the lead weight or rubber band along with the cotton or foam surrounding the lower roots under room-temperature water. Gently inspect stem bases, trim away any bruised tissue, and use pinsettes to plant individual stems directly into substrate.
2. How do I get Ludwigia Inclinata to display its brightest gold and red colors?
Achieving intense gold and ruby-red foliage requires high-intensity lighting, pressurized CO2 injection, soft acidic water, and a robust liquid fertilization schedule with elevated iron levels.
3. Why is my Ludwigia Inclinata growing so fast and reaching the surface within a week?
Ludwigia Inclinata is a rapid grower under high-tech conditions. Routine trimming with sharp aquascaping scissors is necessary to maintain shape. Trimming the stem tops forces the plant to send out multiple side shoots, forming a denser, bushier stand.
