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Description
Ludwigia Decurrens, also known as Water Primrose, is a species of aquatic plant that belongs to the family Onagraceae. It is native to South and Central America and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. This plant is known for its bright green to reddish-brown leaves, which can grow up to 5 cm long and 2 cm wide. Its flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Onagraceae |
| Genus | Ludwigia |
Appearance
Water Primrose is an aquatic plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. Its leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves are bright green to reddish-brown in color, and they can grow up to 5 cm long and 2 cm wide. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in the summer and fall. The plant’s roots are long and fibrous, and they anchor the plant to the substrate.
Care Guide
Water Primrose is a relatively easy plant to care for, and it can thrive in a wide range of water conditions. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:
- Water: Ludwigia Decurrens prefers to grow in shallow water with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.
- Fertilization: This plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced aquatic plant fertilizer.
- Soil: Ludwigia Decurrens can grow in a variety of substrates, including sand, gravel, and clay.
- Sunlight: This plant requires moderate to high levels of light to thrive. It should be placed in an area with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Ludwigia Decurrens can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Water Primrose is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to infestations of snails and aphids. These pests can be controlled by removing them by hand or using an aquatic plant-safe insecticide. In addition, this plant can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the plant’s water conditions are optimal and by avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Ludwigia Decurrens is native to South and Central America and is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and shallow bodies of water. It can grow in both still and flowing water and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ludwigia Decurrens be grown in a pond?
A: Yes, Water Primrose can be grown in a pond as long as it has access to plenty of sunlight and is planted in a substrate that is suitable for aquatic plants.
Q: How often should I fertilize Ludwigia Decurrens?
A: This plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced aquatic plant fertilizer. Fertilization should be done every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Ludwigia Decurrens be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Water Primrose can be grown in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and is filled with a suitable substrate for aquatic plants.
Q: Is Ludwigia Decurrens a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively easy to care for and is a good choice for beginners who are new to growing aquatic plants.
Related Plants
- Ludwigia Glandulosa
- Ludwigia Repens
- Ludwigia Palustris
- Ludwigia Sedioides
References
- https://www.aquasabi.com/Ludwigia-decurrens
- https://www.advancedplantedtank.com/ludwigia-decurrens.html
- https://www.aquariumgardens.co.uk/ludwigia-decurrens-1-bunch-plant-aquarium-pot-p-1406.html
