Ludwigia brevipes - Plant

Ludwigia brevipes is an attractive stem plant known for its slender, pointed leaves and beautiful golden-orange to reddish colouration. Its delicate foliage and growth make it particularly effective for introducing warm colours and fine texture into the midground and background of aquariums. The plant develops upright to  spreading stems with narrow, lance-shaped leaves arranged in opposing pairs. Under moderate lighting, the foliage typically displays green to yellowish-green tones, while stronger lighting and favourable growing conditions encourage shades of gold, copper, orange and red. Regular trimming stimulates lateral branching, allowing individual stems to develop into dense, colourful bushes.

Ludwigia brevipes is frequently compared with Ludwigia arcuata, as both species share similarly narrow foliage and warm colouration. However, Ludwigia brevipes generally develops slightly broader, shorter leaves and a fuller, more compact appearance, whereas Ludwigia arcuata is characterised by its exceptionally fine, needle-like foliage. 

Although relatively adaptable, Ludwigia brevipes performs best under moderate to strong lighting with consistent nutrient availability. Injected CO₂ is highly beneficial for encouraging compact growth, healthy foliage and stronger colouration, although the plant can also grow in well-maintained aquariums without supplementation.

Plant the stems in small groups to create a bushy effect in the tank. Weaker light will cause the shaded leaves to shed. Strong light, stable CO₂ and fertilisation promotes healthy, robust and colourful growth. Cut healthy tops and replant, and lower nodes will sprout side shoots readily. Regular topping and replanting maintains bushy form and prevents legginess.