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Description
Hydrocotyle Bonariensis, also known as Large Pennywort or Water Pennywort, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Araliaceae. It is native to South America and is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and riverbanks. The plant is typically low-growing and spreads rapidly, forming dense mats that can cover large areas. It has round, flat leaves that resemble coins, hence the name “pennywort”. The flowers of Hydrocotyle Bonariensis are small and greenish-white, appearing in umbels on long stalks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
| Species | Bonariensis |
Appearance
Hydrocotyle Bonariensis has round, flat leaves that are typically 2-4 cm in diameter. The leaves are bright green in color and have a slightly wavy margin. The leaves are attached to long, thin petioles that can reach up to 30 cm in length. The plant typically grows to a height of 10-20 cm and spreads rapidly, forming dense mats that can cover large areas. The flowers of Hydrocotyle Bonariensis are small and greenish-white, appearing in umbels on long stalks. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall.
Care Guide
Hydrocotyle Bonariensis is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:Water: Hydrocotyle Bonariensis prefers moist soil and can tolerate standing water. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist.Fertilization: Hydrocotyle Bonariensis does not require fertilizer, but you can use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.Soil: Hydrocotyle Bonariensis prefers a rich, loamy soil that is well-draining. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: Hydrocotyle Bonariensis prefers partial shade to full sun. The plant can tolerate full shade, but it may not grow as vigorously.Hardiness Zones: Hydrocotyle Bonariensis is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Bonariensis is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is consistently waterlogged. Insect pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can occasionally infest the plant. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Bonariensis is native to South America and is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and riverbanks. The plant can tolerate standing water and is often found growing along the edges of streams and ponds. It can also grow in drier areas such as meadows and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hydrocotyle Bonariensis a good plant for a water garden?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Bonariensis is an excellent plant for a water garden. It can tolerate standing water and is often found growing along the edges of streams and ponds.Q: Can Hydrocotyle Bonariensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Bonariensis can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil consistently moist.Q: Does Hydrocotyle Bonariensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Bonariensis can attract wildlife such as bees and butterflies with its small greenish-white flowers.Q: Can Hydrocotyle Bonariensis be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Bonariensis has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as inflammation, fever, and asthma.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Hydrocotyle Bonariensis:- Hydrocotyle umbellata- Hydrocotyle leucocephala- Hydrocotyle sibthorpioides- Hydrocotyle verticillata
References
– “Hydrocotyle Bonariensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d309.- “Hydrocotyle Bonariensis.” Plant Care Today, www.plantcaretoday.com/hydrocotyle-bonariensis.- “Hydrocotyle Bonariensis.” World of Flowering Plants, worldoffloweringplants.com/hydrocotyle-bonariensis-large-pennywort/.
