Oval Ludwigia

Description

Ludwiga ovalis, a relatively new species in the aquarium hobby, originates from East Asia and is easy to cultivate. Its pink-orange ovate leaves make it increasingly popular. In its natural habitat, L. ovalis grows on moist to wet soil or in cooler waters, with a creeping growth habit. It is a low-growing stem plant with roundish to ovate leaves similar to those of L. repens, but with alternate leaves (one per node). The stems grow with a slight slant and produce lateral shoots regularly. Moderate to strong light promotes good growth, and limiting nitrate and/or phosphate content enhances leaf coloration. CO2 injection is beneficial for faster and more robust growth. Iron is essential for intense plant colors. Emersed cultivation requires high humidity and direct sunlight. Flowers are small and inconspicuous. Propagation involves cutting off lateral or top shoots and replanting in the substrate. L. ovalis is a unique, attractive plant suitable for most aquascapes, particularly for mid- or foreground areas, where low-growing stems can create contrast with background plants like light green species.