Dwarf Pennywort
hydrocotyle sibthorpioides
Also known as: ["Dwarf Pennywort","Dwarf Hydrocotyle"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping herbaceous plant with round, kidney-shaped leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. Native to Asia, it is often used in aquariums and terrariums as a ground cover.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Hydrocotyle |
| Botanical Name: | Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks or as needed to control spread and density.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south-facing one. Outdoors, provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 3–5 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; avoid letting the plant sit in water; ensure soil doesn't dry out completely.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C). Tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil. Division of clumps is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings with at least one node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist soil.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional nutrient additions.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks in water; soil propagation may take slightly longer.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, water or soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water every few days if using water propagation; maintain humidity for soil propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back stems to just above a leaf node or junction to promote new growth.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove leggy or yellowing stems to improve appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune in early morning or evening; remove dead or damaged growth first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot. The plant spreads quickly, so container size may need adjustment.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and always allow excess water to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and reduce fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Increase frequency during active growth in spring and summer; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold; leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf discoloration or necrosis. Prolonged cold may lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; provide shade during peak sun hours; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; water before applying; stop in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides. The saponins in the plant can cause irritation to the digestive tract, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. The plant is not typically life-threatening but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHydrocotyle sibthorpioides contains small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested in large quantities. The plant is generally considered safe for topical use but may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much light does this plant require?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade, making it suitable for low-light conditions.
Q: Can this plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for indoor cultivation, especially in terrariums or as a ground cover in shaded indoor spaces.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days, allowing soi |
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