Floating marsh pennywort
Hydrocotyle ranunculoides · Araliaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant floating marsh pennywort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (discreet white flowers)
- Adult size
- 0.3 to 0.5 m tall, spreading habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Cold sensitive (zone 9-11)
- Origin
- South America (Brazil, Paraguay)
- Soil type
- Rich, moist, well-drained
Care
Regular watering
Hydrocotyle ranunculoides appreciates constantly moist but not waterlogged substrate. Indoors or in a greenhouse, keep the soil slightly wet and increase frequency during active growing season. Reduce watering in winter if the plant slows its growth.
Bright light exposure
Prefer moderate to bright indirect light, away from intense direct rays that can scorch the foliage. This plant adapts well to bright interiors or semi-shaded areas. Too dim an exposure slows its growth.
Suitable substrate
Use a rich organic mix: leaf mold, peat, and perlite. Hydrocotyle prefers slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent root suffocation.
Fertilization
Apply balanced, diluted fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season (spring-summer). Reduce applications in autumn and stop in winter. Over-fertilizing can damage delicate foliage.
Pruning and maintenance
Lightly prune overly long stems to encourage compact, bushy growth. Remove damaged or yellowed leaves. This plant responds well to gentle pruning and produces new shoots quickly.
Problem prevention
Watch for mealybugs and spider mites in dry conditions. Regular watering and good air circulation reduce risks. If attacked, isolate the plant and treat with gentle methods before considering chemical solutions.
Did you know?
Hydrocotyle ranunculoides owes its name to its round leaves, reminiscent of aquatic buttercup foliage. Native to humid areas of South America, it has long been used in tropical aquariums as a floating or pond plant. In traditional herbal medicine, some Hydrocotyle species are valued, but this species remains primarily appreciated for its ornamental appeal in indoor and greenhouse cultivation.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Fatsia polycarpaFatsia polycarpa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.