Hydrocotyle Umbellata

Description

Hydrocotyle Umbellata, also known as Many-headed Marsh Pennywort, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apiaceae. It is native to North America, specifically to the eastern United States and Canada. This aquatic plant grows in shallow water, such as marshes, swamps, and ponds, with a stem that ranges from green to reddish-brown in color. The leaves of Hydrocotyle Umbellata are round and scalloped, with a diameter of 1-3 cm. The flowers are small, white, and grow in clusters. The plant blooms from May to September.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Hydrocotyle Umbellata is a small, herbaceous plant that grows in shallow water. The stem can grow up to 30 cm in length, and the leaves are round and scalloped, with a diameter of 1-3 cm. The leaves are attached to the stem by long petioles. The flowers are small, white, and grow in clusters. The plant blooms from May to September. Hydrocotyle Umbellata prefers to grow in marshes, swamps, and ponds with still or slow-moving water.

Care Guide

Hydrocotyle Umbellata requires specific care to thrive in an aquarium or pond. Here are some tips to care for this aquatic plant:Water: Hydrocotyle Umbellata prefers to grow in water with a pH of 6.5-7.5 and a temperature of 20-25°C. The water should be clean and free of pollutants.Fertilization: This plant requires regular fertilization to grow properly. Use a liquid fertilizer once a week or as needed.Soil: Hydrocotyle Umbellata prefers a nutrient-rich soil. Use a substrate that is designed for aquatic plants.Sunlight: This plant requires moderate to high levels of light. Place it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Hydrocotyle Umbellata is hardy in USDA zones 5-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hydrocotyle Umbellata is prone to several pests and diseases, including:Algae: Algae growth can suffocate Hydrocotyle Umbellata. Avoid overfeeding, and perform regular water changes to prevent algae growth.Snails: Snails can eat Hydrocotyle Umbellata. Remove snails by hand or use a snail trap to control their population.Fungal Infections: Fungal infections can cause the leaves of Hydrocotyle Umbellata to wilt or turn brown. Use a fungicide to treat the infection.

Habitat

Hydrocotyle Umbellata is native to North America, specifically to the eastern United States and Canada. It grows in marshes, swamps, and ponds with still or slow-moving water. It prefers to grow in nutrient-rich soil and requires moderate to high levels of light.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Hydrocotyle Umbellata grow in a terrarium?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Umbellata can grow in a terrarium if it is provided with the proper care, including adequate light and water.Q: Is Hydrocotyle Umbellata a good oxygenator?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Umbellata is a good oxygenator and can help improve the water quality in an aquarium or pond.Q: Can Hydrocotyle Umbellata grow in brackish water?
A: No, Hydrocotyle Umbellata prefers to grow in freshwater and cannot tolerate brackish water.Q: Can Hydrocotyle Umbellata grow emersed?
A: Yes, Hydrocotyle Umbellata can grow emersed if it is provided with the proper care, including adequate light and water.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Hydrocotyle Umbellata:

• Hydrocotyle Ranunculoides
• Hydrocotyle Sibthorpioides
• Hydrocotyle Tripartita
• Hydrocotyle Verticillata

References

• “Hydrocotyle Umbellata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287531.
• “Hydrocotyle Umbellata.” Aquatic Arts, www.aquaticarts.com/products/hydrocotyle-umbellata.
• “Many-Headed Marsh-Pennywort.” US Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/hydrocotyle_umbellata.shtml.