Argentine pennywort
hydrocotyle bonariensis
Also known as: ["Argentine pennywort","Water pennywort"]
Overview
A creeping herbaceous plant with rounded leaves and small white flowers, often found in moist environments.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Hydrocotyle |
| Botanical Name: | Hydrocotyle bonariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- 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: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but generally every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on growth habit.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours per day. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and ensure consistent moisture without saturation.
Soil
moist, well-draining soil with high organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting 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.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks in water; 4–6 weeks in soil.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; change water every few days if using water propagation; maintain consistent humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems, pinch tips to encourage branching, and remove yellow or dead leaves.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning or evening; remove dead/damaged growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 1–2 inches wider.
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 the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch is dry; ensure proper drainage; avoid overwatering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution around the root zone. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal issues. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration if prolonged.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHydrocotyle bonariensis is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known substances that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicHydrocotyle bonariensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases or studies indicating that this plant poses a risk to canine health when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicHydrocotyle bonariensis is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions. The plant does not produce known toxins that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hydrocotyle bonariensis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How much sunlight does this plant require?
A: It thrives in partial shade to full shade.
Q: Does it require frequent watering?
A: It prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate occasional drying.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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