Brazilian pennywort
hydrocotyle leucocephala
Also known as: ["Brazilian pennywort","whitehead pennywort"]
Overview
A creeping aquatic or semi-aquatic plant with round, fleshy leaves and small white flowers, often used in aquariums and terrariums.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Hydrocotyle |
| Botanical Name: | Hydrocotyle leucocephala |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or as a marginal plant in a water garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks or as needed to control size and density.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time if heavily overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade but may grow leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct light to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window; 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 intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 3–5 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; avoid waterlogging; ensure even moisture distribution.
Soil
moist, rich, loamy soil with good organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but thrives in stable, warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C).
Medium
Water or moist potting mix (e.g., peat-based with perlite)
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small container, water or potting mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water weekly if using water propagation; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of stems to shape the plant; pinch back tips to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Regular pruning to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or yellowing stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Select new pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring deep saturation to encourage root growth. Allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
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.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or brown leaf edges in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or cold surfaces.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, or wilting.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Hydrocotyle leucocephala may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause mild symptoms if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Hydrocotyle leucocephala by dogs may result in mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHydrocotyle leucocephala contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hydrocotyle leucocephala safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Hydrocotyle leucocephala?
A: Keep the soil consistently moist, as it thrives in damp conditions.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle leucocephala be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a terrarium or aquarium setting with adequate humidity and light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days, allowing soi |
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