Ludwigia ovalis

Overview: More popular with the name Oval Ludwigia, this is an easy to maintain aquarium plant which is popular among the aquarists. Being a colorful plant, it gives flamboyancy to the tank and makes it look more vibrant and beautiful. It can be used as a foreground plant and is perfect for aquascaping. It is a versatile plant which thrives well in both submerged and fully merged conditions. It belongs to the family Onagraceae and originated in Asia. Although easily adaptable, it is a fragile plant which requires great care while planting it in the aquarium. Once established, it proliferates and grows subsequently, attaining its full form in a few months. It propagates by taking the cuttings from the plant and replanting them on the substrate.

Appearance: The plant attains a maximum height of 10-15 cm. It is perfect for growing as a foreground plant not only because of its height but also the vivacious colors. It looks best when grown in a bunch of at least 10 to 12 plants. The vividness of the plant makes a wonderful focal point, hiding the other shortcomings of the aquarium if any. The leaves are oval and grow in alternating pairs. They may show diverse colors like golden, red or orange, depending upon the minerals, light, and temperature in the tank.

Hard/soft Plant: It is a soft plant.

Ideal water temperature: The ideal water temperature is between 20 to 28 degree Celsius, which favors the growth of Ludwigia ovalis. When the right temperature is provided, it shows a good growth pattern and bright colors.

Lightening conditions: Being a colorful plant, it requires light within the specific range to maintain its colors in stem and leaves and show the true vibrancy in the aquascape. Medium lighting is preferred for perfect growth and development. Supplementing carbon dioxide will ensure retaining the colors. It shows a fast growth pattern when the right light is supplied to the tank. Other than light, a nutrient-rich substrate also works in favor of the plant.

Ideal pH level: The ideal pH ranges between 6.0 - 7.0.

Do you know: If you are planning to introduce Ludwigia ovalis in your tank, make sure not to alter the water parameters drastically as it may result in rotting and melting of the plant.