Hydrocotyle Mexicana

Description

Hydrocotyle Mexicana is a plant species that belongs to the Araliaceae family. It is commonly found in Mexico, in the states of Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Veracruz. It can also be found in Guatemala and Honduras. Hydrocotyle Mexicana is a versatile plant that can be used in aquariums and ponds. It is a popular choice for aquascaping because of its unique appearance and ability to grow in different conditions.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Hydrocotyle Mexicana has small, round leaves that grow on long, thin stems. The leaves are green and slightly curved, with a diameter of about 1 cm. The stems can grow up to 10 cm long and are rooted in the substrate. The plant can grow in both emersed and submersed conditions. In emersed conditions, the leaves are larger and more spread out, while in submersed conditions, the leaves are smaller and closer together.

Care Guide

Hydrocotyle Mexicana is a relatively easy plant to care for. It can grow in a wide range of conditions, but it prefers soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant also requires moderate to high lighting and nutrient-rich substrate. CO2 injection is not necessary but can accelerate growth. Fertilization should be done regularly to ensure healthy growth.

Water

Hydrocotyle Mexicana prefers soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The water temperature should be between 20°C and 28°C. Regular water changes are necessary to maintain good water quality.

Fertilization

Fertilization should be done regularly to ensure healthy growth. A balanced liquid fertilizer or root tabs can be used to provide essential nutrients.

Soil

Hydrocotyle Mexicana prefers nutrient-rich substrate. A fine-grained substrate, such as sand or gravel, with added nutrients is ideal for the plant.

Sunlight

Hydrocotyle Mexicana requires moderate to high lighting. The plant should receive at least 8 hours of light per day.

Hardiness Zones

Hydrocotyle Mexicana is hardy in zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hydrocotyle Mexicana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be prone to algae growth if lighting and nutrient levels are not properly balanced. If algae growth occurs, reducing the lighting period and increasing water changes can help control the problem.

Habitat

Hydrocotyle Mexicana is native to Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. It grows in wetlands, marshes, and along streams and rivers. The plant can grow both emersed and submersed, depending on the habitat.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Hydrocotyle Mexicana be grown emersed?

A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Mexicana can be grown emersed. In emersed conditions, the leaves are larger and more spread out.

Q: Does Hydrocotyle Mexicana require CO2 injection?

A: CO2 injection is not necessary for Hydrocotyle Mexicana, but it can accelerate growth.

Q: What water temperature does Hydrocotyle Mexicana prefer?

A: Hydrocotyle Mexicana prefers a water temperature between 20°C and 28°C.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hydrocotyle Mexicana?

A: Hydrocotyle Mexicana is hardy in zones 8-11.

Related Plants

• Hydrocotyle tripartita
• Hydrocotyle verticillata
• Hydrocotyle leucocephala

References

• “Hydrocotyle Mexicana.” Tropica Aquarium Plants. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/Hydrocotylemexicana(050TC)/4497.
• “Hydrocotyle Mexicana – Flowgrow Aquatic Plant Database.” Flowgrow Aquatic Plant Database. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.flowgrow.de/db/wasserpflanzen/hydrocotyle-mexicana.
• “Hydrocotyle Mexicana.” Aquatic Arts. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://aquaticarts.com/products/hydrocotyle-mexicana.