Ludwigia Sp. 'Super Red Mini' (Ludwigia palustris 'Super Red Mini') is one of the most stunning red stem plants available in the aquarium hobby. Featuring compact, deeply colored leaves that range from rich red to burgundy, this dwarf variety of Ludwigia adds dramatic visual impact to any planted aquarium. Unlike many red plants that require extremely demanding conditions, 'Super Red Mini' is relatively forgiving and maintains its color even in moderately lit setups. Its small size makes it ideal for midground placement in nano and medium-sized aquariums, where its bold red coloration creates striking contrast against green-leaved companions. Whether used in Dutch-style aquascapes, nature aquariums, or contrast-focused layouts, 'Super Red Mini' is a favorite for aquarists seeking vibrant color.
Common Name: Super Red Mini Ludwigia, Mini Super Red
Scientific Name: Ludwigia palustris 'Super Red Mini'
Origin: Cultivated variety (parent species: North and Central America)
Placement: Midground, Background (in small tanks)
Maximum Height: 4–8 inches
Growth Rate: Moderate
Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Lighting Requirements: Medium to High
CO2 Requirements: Not required, but highly beneficial
Temperature: 68–82°F
pH Range: 6.0–7.5
'Super Red Mini' is prized for retaining its red coloration consistently across the entire plant, including new growth, making it one of the most colorful aquarium stem plants available.
Ludwigia 'Super Red Mini' is a favorite for aquascapers seeking vibrant red coloration without the difficulty of growing more demanding red species.
Benefits of Ludwigia 'Super Red Mini' include:
Maintains red coloration in moderate lighting
Compact growth ideal for nano tanks
Adds dramatic color contrast to aquascapes
Easier to grow than many red plants
Compatible with community tanks and shrimp aquariums
Propagates easily through cuttings
Ludwigia 'Super Red Mini' performs best under medium to high lighting, which is essential for maintaining its signature red coloration. Under low light, the plant may revert to greenish-orange tones.
For best results:
Provide medium to high planted tank lighting
Maintain a consistent photoperiod of 7–9 hours
Use full-spectrum aquarium lights with strong red wavelengths
Stronger lighting brings out deeper, more intense red coloration.
CO2 supplementation is highly beneficial, significantly improving color, growth, and density.
Slower growth rate
Slightly less intense coloration
Achievable in well-fertilized low-tech tanks
Faster, denser growth
Brilliant red to burgundy coloration
Compact internodes
Improved leaf size and structure
CO2 injection is strongly recommended for the best results with this plant.
Ludwigia 'Super Red Mini' is a moderate root feeder and benefits from nutrient-rich substrate supplemented with root tabs.
Recommended substrate types include:
Aquasoil
Nutrient-rich planted tank substrate
Inert substrate supplemented with root tabs
Iron-rich substrate and supplementation are especially important for maintaining red coloration.
To plant Ludwigia 'Super Red Mini' successfully:
Separate the bunch into individual stems
Trim the bottom of each stem at an angle
Use aquascaping tweezers to plant stems 1–2 inches into substrate
Space stems about 1 inch apart for a bushy appearance
Maintain stable water conditions during establishment
Within several weeks, the plant will adapt and begin producing dense, colorful growth.
Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and prevents lower stems from being shaded out.
Maintenance tips:
Trim tops every 3–5 weeks
Replant healthy cuttings to expand coverage
Dose comprehensive liquid fertilizer with iron supplements
Add root tabs every 2–3 months
Iron supplementation is key to maintaining deep red coloration.
Ludwigia 'Super Red Mini' is compatible with most peaceful freshwater fish and invertebrates.
Compatible tank mates include:
Neon Tetras
Cardinal Tetras
Rasboras
Corydoras
Shrimp
Small peaceful community fish
Avoid large herbivorous fish such as goldfish, which will rapidly consume the plant.
Caused by insufficient lighting, low iron, or inadequate CO2. Increase light intensity and supplement with iron-rich fertilizer.
Indicates insufficient lighting. Increase light intensity or duration.
Suggests nitrogen, magnesium, or general nutrient deficiency. Improve fertilization regimen.
Common during the transition from emersed to submerged growth. New submerged leaves will replace older ones.
Ludwigia Sp. 'Super Red Mini' is one of the best red stem plants for aquarists seeking vibrant color in their planted aquarium. Its compact size, manageable growth, and stunning red coloration make it ideal for nano and medium-sized tanks. While it benefits significantly from CO2 and strong lighting, it remains one of the more forgiving red plants available, making it accessible to intermediate aquarists. With proper lighting, balanced fertilization, and iron supplementation, 'Super Red Mini' will reward you with breathtaking color that elevates any aquascape.
Looking to add dramatic red color to your aquarium? Browse AquaticMotiv's collection of live aquarium plants and colorful stem species for healthy, aquarium-ready plants shipped directly to your door.
