Overview:
Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven var. macropoda (K. Presl) Shinners, also known as big-footed primrose-willow, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the evening primrose family. It is a species native to Florida in the United States, although it is also found in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.
General Appearance:
The plant can grow from 3 to 10 feet tall and 2 to 6 feet wide in the shallow water or wetlands. Its leaves are elliptic to oblanceolate in shape, grow to around 3-8 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide, and have toothed margins with no hairs or glands present. The leaves are arranged alternately and have a dark green color on top while the underside possesses a reddish tint. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in clusters that emerge from the leaf axils in the summer season. The fruit is encapsulated in a small capsule and contains numerous tiny brown seeds.
Common Names:
Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven var. macropoda (K. Presl) Shinners has several common names, such as big-footed primrose-willow, water primrose, and Mexican primrose-willow.
Uses:
This plant has some medicinal uses by certain communities to treat stomach problems, headaches, fever, and women's health issues. Its leaves and roots are used for making tea extracts, and its seeds have anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties in certain communities. Besides traditional medical uses, it is considered as an ornamental aquatic plant and can be used to adorn aquariums, ponds, and water gardens.
Light Requirements
Ludwigia octovalvis var. macropoda prefers full sun, which means it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. This is important for the plant’s overall growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements for Ludwigia octovalvis var. macropoda vary depending on the geographical location and may differ based on the plant's growth stage. It is generally known that this plant prefers warmer temperatures and is tolerant of heat stress. Ideally, the daytime temperature should be between 20°C to 32°C, and night time temperatures should stay above 5°C. Temperatures below this range may lead to poor growth, wilting of leaves, and plant death due to frost.
Soil Requirements
The Ludwigia octovalvis var. macropoda plant prefers soil that is high in organic matter, is well-drained, and moist. The soil pH range should be between 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil but does not like alkaline soil. For optimal growth, it is best to use a balanced soil mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to help with drainage. Fertilizing the soil with slow-acting fertilizers or compost can help provide the necessary nutrients for growth.
Cultivation Methods for Ludwigia Octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven var. Macropoda (K. Presl) Shinners
Ludwigia Octovalvis is an aquatic plant that requires proper care to thrive. To cultivate this plant, you will need to select a suitable tank and a good substrate. A substrate with a composition of sand and clay is perfect for the plant to grow. Keep in mind that Ludwigia Octovalvis requires ample light to grow well. So, consider getting high-quality spectrum lights or LED lights that can penetrate the aquarium's water surface.
You can grow Ludwigia Octovalvis through its stem cutting or seeds. However, it would be best to use stem cutting as seeds will take a long time to grow the plant. Once you plant Ludwigia Octovalvis through stem cutting, it will take around four weeks to develop roots.
Watering Needs for Ludwigia Octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven var. Macropoda (K. Presl) Shinners
As an aquatic plant, Ludwigia Octovalvis requires constant submersion in water. The water should be at a temperature ranging from 22 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius. The pH of the water should be around 6.0 to 7.5.
It would be best if you changed the water every two weeks. During this process, remove any dead leaves or debris that may have fallen on the plant. Regular water changes also help to keep the water's quality in balance.
Fertilization for Ludwigia Octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven var. Macropoda (K. Presl) Shinners
Aquarium plants need fertilizers to grow. Ludwigia Octovalvis requires a nutrient-rich environment to thrive. You can use a substrate that contains essential plant nutrients and add liquid fertilizers to the water. Regular carbon dioxide supply can also help ensure that the plant receives adequate nutrients for growth.
It's crucial to avoid over-fertilization, as this can damage the plant. Consider adding fertilizer in small quantities, and monitor the plant's growth to determine necessary alterations to its feeding schedule.
Pruning for Ludwigia Octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven var. Macropoda (K. Presl) Shinners
Regular pruning of Ludwigia Octovalvis is crucial to maintain its shape and size. You must cut out any dead, yellow, or damaged leaves for the plant to grow healthily.
To maintain its shape, prune the plant in a way that it retains a stem length between 4-5cm. Pruning also helps to maintain the plant's size and shape, preventing crowded growth in the aquarium.
Propagation of Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven var. macropoda (K. Presl) Shinners
Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven var. macropoda (K. Presl) Shinners can be easily propagated by various methods. The most common methods of propagation include:
Seeds
Propagation by seeds is one of the simplest and most economical methods. The seeds are readily available in the market and can be collected from the plant once it reaches maturity. They can be planted directly in the soil or first germinated in a nursery before transplanting. Seeds can be sown in a pot or seed tray filled with well-draining soil and covered lightly with a thin layer of soil. Water regularly and keep the soil moist until germination. The seedlings can be transplanted into their permanent position once they have a good root system and are a few inches tall.
Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another effective method. Select a healthy branch from the plant and cut it just below a node. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot or directly in the soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a partially shaded area until roots form. Once the roots have formed, the new plants can be transplanted into their permanent position.
Division
Propagation by division involves separating the root system of an established plant and planting each section separately. This method is usually used for mature plants that have outgrown their current space or are in need of propagation. Dig up the plant and gently separate the plant into sections with a sharp knife or garden spade. Each section should have a healthy root system and some above-ground growth. Replant each section in a prepared hole with well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Disease Management
The most common diseases that can affect Ludwigia octovalvis var. macropoda are fungal in nature and can cause leaf spots, stem blight, and wilting. These diseases can be managed through cultural practices and fungicidal sprays.
To prevent fungal infections, it is important to avoid over-watering the plant and to ensure proper drainage. Additionally, any diseased plant parts should be removed and destroyed. Fungicidal sprays can also be applied as a preventative measure. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label when using any fungicidal products.
Pest Management
Ludwigia octovalvis var. macropoda can be affected by several pests including aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Pests can cause damage to leaves, stems, and roots, which can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease.
The best way to manage pests is through regular monitoring and early detection. Infested plant parts should be removed and destroyed, and if necessary, insecticidal sprays can be applied. Be sure to select an insecticide that is labeled for use on the specific pest and plant, and follow the instructions on the label.
In addition to chemical control, cultural practices such as pruning and maintaining a clean growing environment can also help prevent pest outbreaks.
