Contents
Description
Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria, also known as Water Pennywort, is an aquatic plant native to North and Central America. It belongs to the family Araliaceae and is a perennial herb that grows in shallow water or moist soil.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
Appearance
Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria has small, round leaves that are green in color and grow on thin stems. The leaves are about 1-2 cm in diameter and have a slightly scalloped edge. The plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and spreads easily through runners. It produces small, white flowers and fruit that resemble tiny umbrellas. This plant adds a lush, green look to any aquascape.
Care Guide
To care for Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. Water: This plant thrives in shallow water or moist soil. It should be planted in a substrate that is nutrient-rich and has a high organic content.Fertilization: Regular fertilization with a liquid fertilizer that contains iron and micronutrients is recommended.Soil: A nutrient-rich substrate is ideal for this plant. It should be planted in a pot or directly in the substrate.Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. It should be placed near a window or under a grow light for at least 6 hours a day.Hardiness Zones: Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 5-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal infections if the water quality is poor. If you notice any signs of disease, such as yellowing or wilting leaves, treat the plant with an aquatic fungicide.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria is native to North and Central America and can be found in shallow water or moist soil in wetlands, streams, and ponds. It is often used in aquascaping and is a popular choice for planted aquariums.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria?
A: Regular fertilization with a liquid fertilizer that contains iron and micronutrients is recommended. Fertilize once a week or as needed based on the plant’s growth rate.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria survive in cold temperatures?
A: Yes, this plant is hardy in zones 5-11 and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Q: How can I propagate Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria?
A: This plant spreads easily through runners. Simply remove a runner with roots attached and plant it in a new location.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria grow in low light?
A: This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can grow in lower light conditions as well. However, it may not grow as quickly or as lushly as it would in brighter light.
Related Plants
- Hydrocotyle tripartita
- Hydrocotyle verticillata
- Hydrocotyle leucocephala
- Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides
References
- “Hydrocotyle Americana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 20, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=242252&isprofile=0&basic=Hydrocotyle%20americana.
- “Hydrocotyle Americana Var. Heteromeria.” Tropica Aquarium Plants. Accessed October 20, 2021. https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/HydrocotyleAmericanaVarHeteromeria(045TC)/4465.
