Creeping Primrose-willow (Ludwigia peploides)

Creeping Primrose-willow

Ludwigia peploides

Its trailing stems spread like soft green mats over water or soil. Aquatic or semi-aquatic herbaceous perennial; common names: Creeping Primrose-willow, Floating Ludwigia.

Full sun
7/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full to partial sun; tolerates mild shade but produces more blooms in bright, direct sunlight
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Watering Keep substrate fully submerged or constantly moist; avoid drying out for semi-aquatic cultivation
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25℃; tolerates brief light frosts but may die back in prolonged freezing conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to lanceolate, glossy green, arranged oppositely on succulent stems
  • Flower: Bright yellow, 4-petaled, 1–2 cm in diameter with prominent stamens
  • Stem: Succulent, trailing, roots at nodes when in contact with moist soil or water
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep water level consistent; top up daily for small containers

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive algae growth in aquatic setups

Dechlorinated aquarium water:Use water from weekly aquarium changes to top up; no dilution needed for aquatic cultivation
Pruning
  • Trim overgrown trailing stems to maintain a compact, neat form
  • Remove dead leaves and spent flowers to prevent decay in water
  • Thin dense growth to improve water circulation and reduce algae risk
  • Propagate trimmed stem nodes by planting in moist soil or submerging in water
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: Non-toxic to cats per ASPCA guidelines

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans per ASPCA and horticultural databases

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Aquatic ornamental, pond edge erosion control, wetland restoration