Contents
Description
Hydrocotyle Elongata is a popular aquarium plant that is native to South America. It is also known as Brazilian Pennywort due to its coin-shaped leaves. This plant is a member of the Apiaceae family and is characterized by its fast growth rate and sprawling nature. Its scientific name is Hydrocotyle Leucocephala.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
Appearance
Hydrocotyle Elongata has small, round leaves that are attached to long, thin stems. The leaves are bright green in color and have a slightly glossy appearance. The plant can grow up to 20 inches in length and can form dense mats on the surface of the water. It can also be grown emersed, where it will develop larger leaves.
Care Guide
Hydrocotyle Elongata is a relatively easy plant to care for. It requires moderate to high light and thrives in soft to slightly hard water with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers temperatures between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.Watering: This plant requires regular watering. It is best to keep the substrate moist at all times.Fertilization: Hydrocotyle Elongata benefits from regular fertilization. Liquid fertilizers are recommended, and they should be added to the water column weekly.Soil: The plant prefers nutrient-rich substrates. You can use a mixture of sand and gravel or a commercial aquarium substrate.Sunlight: Moderate to high light is necessary for the plant’s healthy growth.Hardiness Zones: Hydrocotyle Elongata is sensitive to extreme temperatures and is best suited to hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Elongata is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. The most common pests are snails and algae. It is important to keep the aquarium clean and free of debris to prevent the growth of algae. Snails can be removed manually or with the use of snail traps.The most common diseases that affect Hydrocotyle Elongata are bacterial and fungal infections. These can be prevented by maintaining good water quality and avoiding overcrowding in the aquarium.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Elongata is native to South America and can be found growing submerged in slow-moving streams, rivers, and marshes. It is also commonly found in rice paddies and other wetland areas.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Hydrocotyle Elongata grow?
A: Hydrocotyle Elongata has a fast growth rate and can grow up to 2 inches per week in optimal conditions.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Elongata be grown emersed?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Elongata can be grown emersed and will develop larger leaves when grown in this way.
Q: Is Hydrocotyle Elongata suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Elongata is a relatively easy plant to care for and is suitable for beginners.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Hydrocotyle Elongata?
A: Hydrocotyle Elongata prefers temperatures between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Related Plants
- Hydrocotyle Verticillata
- Hydrocotyle Tripartita
- Hydrocotyle Sibthorpioides
References
- https://www.aquariumcoop.com/blogs/aquarium/hydrocotyle-elongata-care
- https://www.aquasabi.com/aquatic-plants/background-plants/hydrocotyle-elongata
- https://www.advancedplantedtank.com/hydrocotyle-elongata.html
