Ludwigia repens "Mesakana"

This plant is according to Kasselmann (2010)¹ a form of the very variable species Ludwigia repens, however, it also resembles the hybrid L. palustris x repens.
It is not clear what the name affix "Mesakana" refers to. Depending on the wholesaler it is sometimes also spelled "Messacana", "Messancana" or "Messicana" (the latter meaning "Mexican" in Italy). Hans-Georg Kramer (2009)² coined the German expression "Bunte Ludwigie", which translates as "colourful Ludwigia".

In comparison to other varietys of L. repens and to L. palustris x repens, the leaves of L. repens "Mesakana" grow larger, and have a rounder form. They are also more colourful and have a more pronounced pattern. According to Kramer (2009) this Ludwigia also has higher demands and special characteristics:
- a high supply of micronutrients is required, and it is a strong competitor with other Ludwigias;
- develops more nicely in softer water;
- from time to time, the leaves on especially strong shoots tend to wilt and are cast off without any obvious reason. The shoots die off afterwards.

- to be continued -