Water Purslane

• Species commonly referred to as Water Purslane are distributed across tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions worldwide
• *Ludwigia* species are native to the Americas, Africa, and parts of Asia, with centers of diversity in the Neotropics
• *Didiplis diandra* (Water Hedge) is native to the southeastern United States, particularly Florida and adjacent states
• Many species have become naturalized far beyond their native ranges due to their popularity in the aquarium trade

• Small, herbaceous, aquatic to semi-aquatic plants, typically 5–40 cm tall depending on species and growing conditions
• Stems are slender, creeping or ascending, often rooting at the nodes
• Leaves are simple, opposite or alternate (depending on species), small (0.5–3 cm), linear to ovate, with smooth margins
• Leaf color varies from green to reddish-purple depending on light intensity and nutrient availability
• Flowers are small, inconspicuous, typically greenish or pale yellow, with 4 tiny petals (or absent in some species)
• Fruit is a small capsule containing numerous minute seeds
• Root system is fibrous, often forming dense mats in shallow water or saturated soils

• Found in shallow freshwater habitats including pond margins, ditches, marshes, slow-moving streams, and seasonally flooded areas
• Tolerant of a wide range of water conditions, from soft acidic to moderately hard alkaline water
• Plays an important ecological role in stabilizing sediments and providing habitat for aquatic invertebrates and small fish
• Can form dense stands that help filter nutrients and improve water quality
• Reproduces both sexually by seed and vegetatively by stem fragmentation, allowing rapid colonization of suitable habitats
• Some species are considered invasive outside their native range due to their vigorous growth and ability to outcompete native vegetation

Light:
• Prefers moderate to high light levels for compact growth and vibrant coloration
• Under high light, some species develop striking red or purple pigmentation

Water:
• Thrives in freshwater with temperatures between 18–28°C
• pH range: 6.0–7.5 (adaptable to slightly broader ranges)
• Soft to moderately hard water is ideal

Substrate:
• Nutrient-rich substrate promotes robust growth
• In aquarium settings, root tabs or liquid fertilization enhances coloration and density

CO2:
• Not strictly required but supplemental CO2 significantly improves growth rate and overall health

Propagation:
• Easily propagated by stem cuttings — simply trim and replant healthy stem tips
• Cuttings root readily within 1–2 weeks under favorable conditions

Common Problems:
• Leggy, sparse growth → insufficient light
• Leaf drop or melting → sudden changes in water parameters
• Algae on leaves → excess light without adequate nutrients or CO2