Mexican primrose-willow
Ludwigia octovalvis · Onagraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant mexican primrose-willow: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Eight-valve primrose willow, Ludwigia
- Family
- Onagraceae
- Type
- Annual or perennial herb depending on climate
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn, yellow flowers
- Mature size
- 30 to 100 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Not very hardy, sensitive to frost
- Origin
- Tropical and subtropical America
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate constantly moist, even waterlogged depending on its use (aquatic or marsh plants). Water regularly during the growing season, especially in summer. Reduce watering in winter if the plant is potted and dormant. Avoid abrupt dry-wet cycles.
Light
Place the plant in full sun for optimal flowering and vigorous growth. It tolerates partial shade, but will flower less abundantly. An sunny exposure of 6 to 8 hours per day is ideal.
Soil and substrate
Prefer rich, humus-filled and well-draining soil, or a substrate for aquatic/marsh plants. Ludwigia adapts to humid environments and even partially submerged conditions. In a pot, use a mix of potting soil and peat to maintain moisture.
Fertilizer
Fertilize every 15 to 30 days during the growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer. In an aquarium or pond, moderate feeding is sufficient; excess promotes algae. Reduce feeding in winter.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch back young shoots regularly to encourage a bushy, branched habit. Remove dead, diseased, or overly long stems. Light pruning in spring helps rejuvenate the plant.
Diseases and pests
Watch for root rot if stagnant water lacks aeration. Rarely affected by pests in standard cultivation. In aquariums, check water chemical balance to prevent deterioration. Isolate any affected plant quickly.
Did you know?
Ludwigia octovalvis is native to tropical America and has naturalized in many humid ecosystems worldwide, particularly in Southeast Asia, where it has become a very popular aquatic plant in aquarium hobby. Its name 'octovalvis' means 'eight-valved' and refers to the characteristic structure of its fruit, which distinguishes its form and facilitates reproduction.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Evening primroseOenothera fruticosa
- Bolivian fuchsiaFuchsia boliviana
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.