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Description
Hydrocotyle Dissecta, also known as Water Pennywort, is a creeping perennial plant that belongs to the family Araliaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in wet, marshy areas, along streams, and in bogs. This plant has small, rounded leaves that are deeply lobed and resemble little umbrellas. It produces small, white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
Appearance
The Hydrocotyle Dissecta plant has small, rounded leaves that are deeply lobed and look like little umbrellas. The leaves are bright green and can grow up to 1 inch in diameter. The stems of this plant are thin, creeping, and have small roots at the nodes. The plant produces small, white flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The flowers are clustered in umbels and are about 1/8 inch in diameter.
Care Guide
Hydrocotyle Dissecta is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Water Pennywort:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. This plant prefers to grow in wet, marshy areas.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers to grow in nutrient-rich, organic soil that is well-draining.
- Sunlight: Hydrocotyle Dissecta prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. It can tolerate full sun, but it may need more frequent watering.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Dissecta is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to yellow and wilt. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause the leaves to become stippled and yellow. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Dissecta is native to North America and can be found in wet, marshy areas, along streams, and in bogs. It prefers to grow in nutrient-rich, organic soil that is well-draining. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hydrocotyle Dissecta a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Dissecta is a great plant for beginners. It is low-maintenance and easy to care for.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Dissecta be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Dissecta can be grown in a container as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: Does Hydrocotyle Dissecta attract bees?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Dissecta produces small, white flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Dissecta be grown in full sun?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Dissecta can be grown in full sun, but it may need more frequent watering.
Related Plants
- Hydrocotyle Bonariensis
- Hydrocotyle Ranunculoides
- Hydrocotyle Sibthorpioides
- Hydrocotyle Tripartita
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. “Hydrocotyle Dissecta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287456.
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. “Hydrocotyle Dissecta.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, 2021, https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/hydrocotyle-dissecta.html.
- American Meadows. “Hydrocotyle Dissecta – Water Pennywort.” American Meadows, 2021, https://www.americanmeadows.com/perennials/hydrocotyle-dissecta.
