Rubin Ludwigia

Ruby Ludwigia is the plant that Tropica imported as Ludwigia repens 'Rubin', and Flowgrow treats that name as a synonym of Ludwigia 'Rubin'. Recent research suggests it is not actually a variety of L. repens at all but a relative of L. glandulosa, probably a hybrid, sometimes called Ludwigia aff. glandulosa; the leaves resemble L. repens but sit in both opposite and alternate pairs at irregular intervals. Whatever the botanists settle on, the growing demands are simple. It does well in 18 to 28 °C and pH 5 to 7.5, under medium to strong light, and once established it grows fast, throwing many roots at the nodes. The dark red colour only really shows with strong light and a good iron supply, and at full colour it is a striking midground or background focal point. It is a low-maintenance stem that suits beginners wanting a strong red accent. Propagation is easy from lateral shoot cuttings.