Contents
Description
Hydrocotyle Microphylla, also known as Small Leaf Pennywort, is a small aquatic plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and can be found growing in freshwater streams, rivers, and wetlands. The plant forms a dense mat of small leaves that can grow up to 1cm in diameter. It is an excellent plant for aquascaping and is often used in aquariums as a background plant or as a foreground plant in small tanks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
Appearance
Hydrocotyle Microphylla has small round leaves that are light green in color. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern and can grow up to 1cm in diameter. The plant can reach a height of up to 10cm, and it spreads quickly to form a dense mat. The stems of the plant are thin and delicate, making it a fragile plant that requires gentle handling. The plant also produces small white flowers that bloom above the waterline.
Care Guide
Water: Hydrocotyle Microphylla prefers clean, fresh water that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, but it thrives in water that is rich in nutrients.
Fertilization: The plant requires regular fertilization to thrive. Use a liquid fertilizer that is specially formulated for aquatic plants.
Soil: The plant can be grown in a variety of substrates, including sand, gravel, and aqua soil. It prefers a substrate that is rich in nutrients and has good water circulation.
Sunlight: Hydrocotyle Microphylla requires moderate to high levels of light. It should be placed in a well-lit area of the aquarium or pond.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Microphylla is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to algae growth if the water conditions are not optimal. The plant can also be damaged by snails, which can eat the leaves and stems of the plant.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Microphylla is native to Southeast Asia and can be found growing in freshwater streams, rivers, and wetlands. It prefers slow-moving water that is rich in nutrients and has good water circulation. The plant is an important part of the ecosystem and provides food and shelter for many aquatic animals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hydrocotyle Microphylla a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Microphylla is a good plant for beginners. It is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of water conditions.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Microphylla be grown emersed?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Microphylla can be grown emersed. It will require more frequent watering and higher humidity levels when grown emersed.
Q: How often should Hydrocotyle Microphylla be fertilized?
A: Hydrocotyle Microphylla should be fertilized once a week with a liquid fertilizer that is specially formulated for aquatic plants.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Microphylla be grown in a pond?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Microphylla can be grown in a pond. It will require moderate to high levels of light and regular fertilization to thrive.
Related Plants
- Hydrocotyle Leucocephala
- Hydrocotyle Tripartita
- Hydrocotyle Verticillata
References
- https://www.aquaessentials.co.uk/hydrocotyle-microphylla-small-leaf-pennywort-p-5765.html
- https://www.aquariumgardens.co.uk/hydrocotyle-microphylla-small-leaf-pennywort-aquarium-plant-p2040
- https://www.advancedplantedtank.com/hydrocotyle-microphylla/
