Brazilian Pennywort care guide
Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) — low light, 20-28 °C, pH 6-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) is an aquatic plant of the family Araliaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as a beginner-level species. It is typically grown under low light and without obligatory CO2 injection on any substrate. A fast-growing versatile stem plant with attractive round leaves. Can be planted in substrate or left floating. An excellent nutrient absorber that helps control algae, making it a top choice for beginners.
Taxonomy
- Family: Araliaceae
- Genus: Hydrocotyle
- Scientific name: Hydrocotyle leucocephala
- Common synonyms: Pennywort, Hydrocotyle leucocephala
Habitat
Hydrocotyle is a cosmopolitan genus of small marsh plants (Araliaceae) growing in damp meadows, ditches and along stream margins. Stems are creeping and root readily at each node. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from South America.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: low
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 20-28 °C (68-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Substrate: any
- Maximum height: 60 cm
- Growth rate: fast
- Recommended placement: background
Placement
Midground or foreground; the round leaves form bright low cushions when grown under high light, and trail upward toward the surface under softer light. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the background under low light and without obligatory CO2 injection, using any substrate.
Propagation
Propagated by cuttings of horizontal stems; every node carries dormant roots that strike quickly in nutrient-rich substrate. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: stem cuttings.
Common issues
Shading and low light cause vertical stretching and leggy growth; brighter light and regular trimming maintain a compact mat.