Hydrocotyle Vulgaris Plant

Water Pennywort

Family

Araliaceae

Origin

North Africa

Description

Hydrocotyle vulgaris, the water pennywort, is a small creeping aquatic perennial plant. It has lovely neat glossy little peltate mid-green leaves, almost circular with slightly ruffled edges and small, insignificant, greenish-white or purplish white flowers in summer.  Approximate height: 10cm (4 inches)

Environment

Hydrocotyle Vulgaris is ideal for growing in as a marginal aquatic plant in mud at the side of a pond or water garden or in up to 2” of standing water. Recommended water depth over crown of plant: 0 - 5cm (0 - 2 inches) . Grow in containers in water gardens.

They do well with medium to partial light. Indirect light is best for Hydrocotyle Vulgaris; it’ll help the leaves grow full and lush.

Water Pennywort likes soil that is good at retaining moisture. When the plant is rooted, it will grow as a stem plant up toward the water surface and light source.

Cautions

All parts of a plant contain calcium oxalate crystals, an irritant to the mouth and esophagus. They are toxic to cats and dogs.

Landscape Uses

Excellent foliage plant for covering the edge of the pond or underplanting taller species. As a rooted plant, Pennywort can be used in the midground or background. Some hobbyists even keep it in the foreground.