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