Contents
Description
Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia, also known as the Water Pennywort, is a popular aquatic plant that belongs to the Araliaceae family. It is native to South America and is commonly found in places with slow-moving water such as marshes, swamps, and streams.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Araliaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
Appearance
Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia has round, bright green leaves that are slightly scalloped around the edges. The leaves are attached to long, slender stems that can grow up to 10 inches in length. The plant can grow up to 6 inches tall and can spread up to 12 inches wide. It has small, white flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Care Guide
Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia is a relatively easy plant to care for, provided that its basic needs are met. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Water Pennywort:
- Water: Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia thrives in water, and should be kept in an aquarium or pond with a pH range of 6-7.5.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but a dose of liquid fertilizer every two weeks can help it grow faster.
- Soil: No soil is needed, as the plant grows fully submerged in water.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers moderate to high lighting conditions, and should be placed near a source of natural light or under artificial light for at least 8 hours a day.
- Hardiness Zones: Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia grows best in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia is generally a hardy plant and is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, some common issues that may arise include:
- Algae: Algae can grow on the leaves of the plant if it is exposed to too much sunlight or if the water quality is poor.
- Snails: Snails can eat the leaves of the plant and cause damage.
- Root Rot: Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the water quality is poor.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia is native to South America, and is commonly found in marshes, swamps, and slow-moving streams. It grows fully submerged in water and is adapted to aquatic environments.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia grow in a terrarium?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia can grow in a terrarium as long as it is kept fully submerged in water.
Q: How often should I change the water in my Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia aquarium?
A: It is recommended to change the water in your Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia aquarium every week to maintain good water quality.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia be grown in a pond with fish?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia can be grown in a pond with fish. In fact, it can provide shelter and oxygen for fish.
Q: How fast does Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia grow?
A: Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia can grow relatively fast under the right conditions, with leaves growing up to 1 inch in diameter in just a few weeks.
Related Plants
- Hydrocotyle Leucocephala
- Hydrocotyle Tripartita
- Hydrocotyle Sibthorpioides
- Hydrocotyle Verticillata
References
- “Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia.” Tropica Aquarium Plants. Accessed 25 August 2021. https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/Hydrocotylegeraniifolia(048TC)/4446
- “Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia.” Aquarium Gardens. Accessed 25 August 2021. https://www.aquariumgardens.co.uk/hydrocotyle-geraniifolia-872-p.asp
- “Hydrocotyle Geraniifolia.” The Aquarium Guide. Accessed 25 August 2021. https://www.theaquariumguide.com/articles/hydrocotyle-geraniifolia
