A Ludwigia arcuata either thrives or melts within the first month, and the difference is almost always down to three things you can control. The Ludwigia arcuata Ludwigia arcuata is a workhorse plant for a reason: it tolerates a wide range of conditions and still looks good doing it.
At a glance
| Light | high |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22 to 28 °C |
| pH | 6.0 to 7.5 |
| Height | 20 to 40 cm |
| CO₂ | beneficial |
| Growth | moderate |
Planting
Plant Ludwigia arcuata with the crown or rhizome clear of the substrate — burying it rots the base. In a 28-gallon tank, position it mid-ground or background depending on its height. Weaker setups do fine; pair it with our monte carlo care: the beginner-friendly carpet plant guide for a layered look.
Light and CO₂
Run 10 hours of light a day on a timer to avoid algae swings. Ludwigia arcuata grows under high light and beneficial, though a small, steady dose of liquid fertiliser every 3 weeks pushes denser growth.
Propagation
Trim and replant the tops; it reddens under light.
Common issues
Yellowing lower leaves usually mean a nutrient gap, not too little light. Trim dying leaves at the base, keep nitrates around 10 to 20 ppm, and avoid moving the plant every week — the swim bladder disease: fish floating or sinking explains why stability beats tinkering.
