Contents
Description
Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa, commonly known as winged marsh pennywort, is a perennial aquatic plant that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is native to North and South America and can be found in wetlands, ponds, and slow-moving streams. The plant has a creeping habit and can form a dense mat in shallow water. Its leaves are green and circular, with a diameter of 1-2 cm, and have a distinctive “winged” appearance due to the white margins of the leaf blade. The plant produces small, white flowers in the summer, which are arranged in umbels.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
| Species | Pterocarpa |
Appearance
Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa has circular leaves that are green in color and have a diameter of 1-2 cm. The leaves have a distinctive “winged” appearance due to the white margins of the leaf blade. The plant has a creeping habit and can form a dense mat in shallow water. It produces small, white flowers in the summer, which are arranged in umbels.
Care Guide
Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: This plant prefers to be grown in shallow water.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers a neutral to slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa is relatively disease and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa is native to North and South America and can be found in wetlands, ponds, and slow-moving streams. The plant prefers to grow in shallow water and can form a dense mat in these environments. It is a common sight in freshwater ecosystems.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: What is the best soil for Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa?
A: Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa prefers a neutral to slightly acidic soil.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa can be grown in a container as long as it is placed in shallow water.
Q: Does Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa can attract wildlife such as frogs and insects.
Related Plants
- Hydrocotyle Americana
- Hydrocotyle Bonariensis
- Hydrocotyle Verticillata
References
- Flora of North America: Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa
- Aquatic Plant Central: Hydrocotyle Pterocarpa
