🌿 Ludwigia Meta – Rare Red Stem Plant from Colombia

Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Meta', commonly known as Ludwigia Meta, is a rare and magnificent stem plant native to the Departamento del Meta in central Colombia. Admired for its fine, whorled leaves and breathtaking color transformation, this plant is still considered a true rarity in the aquarium trade.

At the Aquarium Plants Factory nursery, Ludwigia Meta is cultivated in its emersed form, where the leaves are green in color. Once transitioned into the aquarium, it develops its signature orange to deep red hues, depending on lighting and nutrient conditions. This makes it an extraordinary choice for aquascapers seeking vibrant contrast and a truly exotic centerpiece.

🌟 Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Ludwigia inclinata var. verticillata 'Meta'

• Origin: Departamento del Meta, central Colombia

• Appearance: Narrow leaves, about 5 cm long and 2 mm wide, arranged in elegant whorls of ~11 leaves

• Coloration: Brilliant orange to deep red under strong lighting and nutrient-rich conditions

• Growth Habit: Upright stems reaching up to 30 cm tall and 8 cm wide, with little branching

🌱 Growth & Propagation:

• Lighting Needs: Strong lighting required for vibrant coloration

• CO₂ & Fertilizers: CO₂ injection and balanced macro- and micronutrients are highly recommended

• Water Parameters: Prefers soft water with carbonate hardness below 4 °dH

• Growth Method: Submersed stem plant; emersed form produces green leaves and striking yellow flowers

• Nutrient Substrate: Required for healthy growth and coloration

• Can Be Grown Emersed: Yes – produces elliptical green leaves and yellow flowers on reddish-brown stems when grown above water

• Propagation: Easily propagated by cuttings; floating stems may develop emersed shoots and flowers

🖼️ Aquascaping Benefits:

• Adds spectacular red-orange tones to mid- or background layouts

• Contrasts beautifully against light green plants, creating dramatic depth

• Offers a rare centerpiece plant with colors similar to Ludwigia “Pantanal” but with easier care requirements

📦 What You’ll Receive:

Choose the format that suits your aquascaping needs:

• Fresh-Cut Plants: Approximately 6+ unrooted stems

• Bunched Plants: 6+ fresh-cut stems without root, bundled with foam and plant weight

• Potted Plants: 6+ fresh-cut stems potted in rockwool within a 2-inch net pot

⚠️ Disclaimer:

Ludwigia Meta ships in its emersed green form. Once submerged and provided with strong light and nutrients, it will gradually develop its iconic orange to red hues. Slight leaf melt during transition is normal.

🚫 State Restrictions Notice ♻️ Be a Responsible Aquatic Plants Owner

Please check your local regulations before introducing new plants. Never release aquarium plants into natural waterways.