Description
Plant Profile
Ludwigia Brevipes, commonly known as Long Eames, is a delicate and fast-growing aquatic stem plant native to the coastal boggy wetlands of the Southeastern United States. Bearing a striking resemblance to Ludwigia arcuata, this charming species features long, narrow, needle-like leaves that branch densely along sturdy central stems. Depending on light intensity and nutrient dosing, its foliage transitions from a soft yellow-green to fiery orange and glowing copper-red, especially at the shoot tips.
Key Features & Benefits
Slender, needle-like foliage displays a vibrant color gradient from soft green to warm orange and copper-red.
Fast-growing stem habit easily forms dense, feathery bushes when routinely trimmed.
Hardy and adaptable species native to North America, suitable for both submerged aquariums and emersed setups.
Care & Planting Instructions
Remove lead weight (or pot) and cotton wrap (or foam) surrounding the roots, then strip lower foliage so bare stems anchor cleanly into soil without rotting. *Ludwigia stems and leaves are fragile, so handle stems with care during preparation.
Use fine-tip pinsettes to insert individual stems 1 to 2 inches deep into aquarium soil.
Provide medium-to-high lighting and clean water conditions; while adaptable without CO2, supplying pressurized CO2 injection and regular liquid fertilization rich in iron yields the deepest orange-red tones. See our guide to growing red aquarium plants.
Maintain soft, slightly acidic water parameters and avoid sudden parameter swings to prevent stem melting or leaf shedding.
To propagate, trim main stem tops or side shoots with sharp straight shears and replant trimmings directly into substrate. Read our trimming & propagation guide for details.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
Attribute
Specification
Scientific Name
Ludwigia brevipes
Common Name(s)
Ludwigia Brevipes, Long Eames
Family
Onagraceae
Plant Type / Taxonomy
Stem Plant
Care Difficulty
Easy
Light Requirement
Medium to High
CO2 Requirement
Recommended (Yields richer orange-red tones and faster growth)
Placement / Usage
Midground / Background Bushing
Height / Size
4–12”+
Growth Rate
Fast
Water Parameters
pH 4.5–7.0 (Soft, slightly acidic water preferred)
Propagation Method
Cuttings (Cut stem tops or lateral shoots and replant)
Origin
North America (Southeastern U.S.)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I prep bunched Ludwigia Brevipes (Long Eames) before planting?
Remove the lead weight or rubber band along with the cotton or foam surrounding the lower roots under room-temperature water. Gently inspect stem bases, trim away any bruised tissue, and use pinsettes to plant individual stems directly into substrate.
2. How is Ludwigia Brevipes different from Ludwigia Arcuata?
While both species feature thin, needle-like foliage, Ludwigia Brevipes generally forms slightly broader needle leaves and exhibits a warmer orange-copper hue compared to the intense blood-red coloration typical of Ludwigia arcuata.
3. How do I get Ludwigia Brevipes to show deep orange and red tips?
Achieving fiery orange-red shoot tips requires medium-to-high light intensity, pressurized CO2 injection, and a balanced liquid fertilization routine supplying iron and essential micronutrients.
