Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) is a fast-growing aquatic plant with round, scalloped leaves, popular in aquariums and water gardens for its ease of care.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect
75% intensity
Thrives in bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some partial shade but may grow less vigorously.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Prefers consistently damp soil or submerged conditions. Do not allow to dry out.
Sandy, Loamy, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Average Room
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-25°C (65-77°F). Protect from frost.
Light
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep Brazilian Pennywort consistently moist, especially when grown in soil. In aquatic setups, maintain a stable water level.
Avoid letting the substrate dry out completely, as this can stress the plant and lead to wilting. Water thoroughly when the top layer of soil feels dry.
Prune Brazilian Pennywort regularly to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Trim back stems to the desired length, cutting just above a leaf node. Remove any yellowed or dead foliage promptly.
Pruning also helps maintain its compact form.
Brazilian Pennywort is incredibly easy to propagate. Simply take stem cuttings, ensuring each cutting has at least one leaf node. You can root these cuttings directly in water or moist soil.
New roots and leaves will typically appear within a few weeks.
Repot Brazilian Pennywort when it becomes root-bound or outgrows its current container, typically every 1-2 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
If growing in an aquatic setting, you may need to repot or refresh the substrate to prevent compaction.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala)
Where Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
| Species | Hydrocotyle leucocephala |
Similar in genus Hydrocotyle
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
