Stellata Aquascape

[Aquabum]

Robert H,

Thank you so much. I'm a member of your forum as well, so I'll be sure to post a picture of it there too.

The first photo you posted looks exactly like the plant that I have. Which by the way, looks gorgeous as well. Love the picture.

Today I called up the lfs that I bought the plant from (Pacific Aquarium), and I was told that the plant is called Ludwigia Peruensis. But I've read on the other sites, that this plant is also called Glandulosa. Is this right? Or maybe I misunderstood.

Live and Learn.


Lissette

 

[Robert H]

Yes, they are both names for the same plant, that is correct. Plants do look different under different light, and vary somewhat in appearance any way.

Here is what the APC plant finder says about it:

Ludwigia glandulosa, a native of the U.S., is distributed through out most of the southern states where it grows in wetland areas as well as roadside ditches. Despite its wide range, it is classified as a threatened and endangered species in Indiana and Louisiana, respectively.

L. glandulosa is moderately difficult to grow. Without high light, its leaves will turn green and will fall off. Even in high light tanks, lower leaves are still susceptible to dropping. Being such a high light plant, regular dosing of trace and iron become necessary. Other than these needs, this plant isn’t very challenging. It isn't very picky about nitrate and phosphate levels as long as these macronutrients are present in some amount. Sucessful growth has been demenstrated with NO3 ranging from 5-25 ppm and PO4 of 0.5-3 ppm. Unlike typical "red" plants, L. glandulosa does not need to have low nitrate levels to maintain its red coloration.

Unlike other Ludwigias, L. glandulosa does not like to branch. Even when this plant grows right up to the water line, it tends not to branch, but rather grows out of the water. To force side shoot growth, one usually has to snip the tip of the stem.

Because of the intense coloration of this plant, L. glandulosa is ideal as a focal point plant. Its intense red/purple leaves will easily attract the eye. Because this plant is not extremely fast-growing and does not often branch, one can easily use this plant in the Dutch-style plant "streets".


In my forum in the plant database, you can also read experiences other people have had with this plant. I always sell this plant quickly, and the availability of this plant comes and goes which makes it very frustrating to a seller like me. Also because of its tendencey to shed leaves, inexperienced people are often disappointed when they buy the plant mail order.

 

[Aquabum]

Thanks for the info.

I recently realized that the Glandulosa doesn't branch out unless I cut her. After reading your article, I'm glad to know that it's a normal thing.

I also experienced the same thing with the bottom leaves falling off (this was also a Ca problem). That's why I like placing her in the middle of the tank where she can flourish. This plant is the reddest plant I've ever owned. There's no other plant like it. It's no wonder many people like it as their focal point in their aquascape.

I agree that this plant is a bit demanding.

Again, thanks for sharing.

Lissette