Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta'

Overview: The colorful foliage and unique growth form of Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' makes it an aesthetic element for every aquarium. The plant hails from Onagraceae family and is native to South America. If aquarist want to add a splash of colors in their tank, adding a few plants of Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' will do the needful. It is a beautiful ornamental plant whose care and maintenance are easy. It is a popular choice in planted aquariums, especially for those who enjoy creating dynamic and colorful underwater landscapes.

Appearance: The leaves of Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' are narrow and elongated. They grow in a slightly opposite pattern along the stem, creating a stunning look. The overall shape of the plant is bushy, forming a dense cluster of stems. If left untrimmed, Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' may grow very tall. In addition to shape, the color of the leaves is also very unique, having tones of green and red. Under optimal conditions, the leaves can develop deep, reddish hues. The intensity of the red coloration often increases with the right light and CO2 levels. The plant's stems are relatively sturdy and reddish-brown, contributing to the overall vibrant appearance. Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' can grow as tall as 12 to 18 inches depending upon the growing conditions; therefore, it is suitable in the midground and background areas of the tank.

Hard/Soft Plant: Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' is considered a moderately hardy plant, which means it is not overly delicate. It requires attention to its growing environment, including water chemistry, lighting, and nutrients, to thrive. With the right care, hobbyists will be rewarded with striking color and growth.

Ideal Water Temperature: The suitable water temperature for Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' is between 22 and 28 degrees Celsius, which is typical for most tropical freshwater plants. While it can tolerate temperatures slightly outside this range but may exhibit slower growth or reduced coloration.

Lighting Condition: Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' requires moderate to high lighting for the best coloration and growth. Under low light, the vibrant reds and oranges of the leaves may fade to a more muted green. High light will encourage more compact, bushy growth and help the plant reach its full potential in terms of color.

Ideal pH Level: The best pH range for Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' is between 6 and 7.5. The plant is sensitive to rapid fluctuations in pH, so it's important to maintain stable conditions.

Other Requirements: The water hardness can be between 3 to 12 dGH for the best results. Soft water is ideal, as it allows the plant to absorb nutrients more efficiently. Regarding substrate, a nutrient-rich one, preferably with fine gravel and sand, will ensure good growth. Regular fertilization, typically through liquid fertilizers containing essential nutrients, will help Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' flourish.

Propagation: Ludwigia inclinata 'Meta' propagates easily through stem cuttings. Simply trim the healthy top sections of the stems and replant them in the substrate. The cuttings will quickly root and grow into new plants.

Do You Know: This plant is sometimes confused with Ludwigia repens, but L. inclinata 'Meta' is distinct in its leaf shape and coloration. It has a narrower leaf structure compared to L. repens and is typically more colorful when grown under the right conditions.