Contents
Description
Hydrocotyle Verticillata, commonly known as Whorled Pennywort, is a popular aquatic plant species that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to North and Central America and can be found in freshwater habitats such as marshes, swamps, and streams. This plant is also cultivated in aquariums and water gardens due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Hydrocotyle |
Appearance
Hydrocotyle Verticillata has a unique appearance that makes it a popular choice for aquariums and water gardens. It has small, round leaves that are arranged in whorls around the stem, which gives it a distinctive look. The leaves are light green in color and have a slightly scalloped edge. The plant can grow up to 6 inches tall and spreads rapidly through runners.
Care Guide
To keep Hydrocotyle Verticillata healthy and thriving, follow these care guidelines:- Water: This plant prefers clean, clear water with a neutral pH level. Change the water in your aquarium or water garden regularly to prevent the buildup of harmful chemicals and pollutants.- Fertilization: Hydrocotyle Verticillata doesn’t require much fertilization. However, you can add a small amount of liquid fertilizer to the water once a month to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of substrates, including sand, gravel, and clay. Make sure the substrate is well-draining and doesn’t contain any sharp or abrasive materials that could damage the roots.- Sunlight: Hydrocotyle Verticillata prefers bright, indirect light. If you’re keeping it in an aquarium, provide a low to medium level of lighting.- Hardiness Zones: This plant can survive in temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. It can thrive in hardiness zones 6-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydrocotyle Verticillata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to algae growth if the water quality is poor. To prevent algae growth, maintain clean water and avoid overfeeding your fish.
Habitat
Hydrocotyle Verticillata is native to North and Central America and can be found in freshwater habitats such as marshes, swamps, and streams. It prefers slow-moving or still water with a neutral pH level. It can also be found in aquariums and water gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Verticillata survive in saltwater?
A: No, this plant is strictly a freshwater species and cannot survive in saltwater.
Q: How often should I change the water in my aquarium to keep Hydrocotyle Verticillata healthy?
A: You should change the water in your aquarium once a week or every other week to maintain good water quality.
Q: Can Hydrocotyle Verticillata be grown in a pond?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a pond as long as the water is freshwater and the pH level is neutral.
Q: Does Hydrocotyle Verticillata require a lot of maintenance?
A: No, this plant is relatively easy to care for and doesn’t require much maintenance. Just make sure to maintain good water quality and provide enough light for healthy growth.
Related Plants
– Hydrocotyle Leucocephala- Hydrocotyle Tripartita- Hydrocotyle Sibthorpioides- Hydrocotyle Vulgaris
References
– Aquatic Plant Central. (n.d.). Hydrocotyle Verticillata. Retrieved from https://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/plantfinder/details.php?id=72- Aquarium Advice. (2021). Hydrocotyle Verticillata. Retrieved from https://www.aquariumadvice.com/hydrocotyle-verticillata/- The Spruce Pets. (2021). How to Grow and Care for Hydrocotyle Verticillata in Aquariums. Retrieved from https://www.thesprucepets.com/hydrocotyle-verticillata-5072467
