Hydrocotyle leucocephala Care Guide

Common Name

Brazilian Pennywort

Difficulty Level

Easy

Family

Araliaceae

General Description

Hydrocotyle leucocephala, commonly known as Brazilian Pennywort, is a fast-growing aquatic plant native to Central and South America. It features rounded, bright green leaves growing along creeping stems. It can be planted in the substrate, allowed to float at the water’s surface, or trained to grow along aquarium hardscape. Its adaptable nature and rapid growth make it an excellent choice for beginners and planted aquariums.

Care Requirements

1. Tank Size

A minimum aquarium size of 10 gallons (38 L) is recommended. It can be grown in smaller aquariums with regular trimming.

2. Lighting Requirements

Low to High. Brazilian Pennywort adapts to a wide range of lighting conditions. Moderate to high lighting generally promotes faster, denser growth.

3. CO₂ Requirements

Not required. CO₂ injection can encourage faster growth and fuller foliage but is not necessary for healthy growth.

4. Water Parameters

• Temperature: 18–28°C (64–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water hardness: Soft to moderately hard

5. Substrate

A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial when planted in the substrate, but it is not essential. The plant can also grow while floating or attached loosely among aquarium decorations.

6. Fertilization

Moderate fertilization is recommended to support its rapid growth. Use a complete liquid fertilizer, especially in aquariums with limited nutrients. Root fertilization may help when the plant is rooted in the substrate.

7. Maintenance

Brazilian Pennywort grows quickly and requires regular trimming to prevent it from shading other plants. Remove damaged or yellowing leaves and thin out dense growth as needed.

8. Propagation

Propagation is simple. Cut healthy stems just below a node and replant the cuttings. New roots will develop from the nodes, allowing the plant to establish itself quickly.

9. Placement in Tank

Suitable for the midground or background when planted in the substrate. It can also be grown as a floating plant or trained along aquarium hardscape. Its trailing stems make it versatile for different aquascaping styles.

Summary

Hydrocotyle leucocephala is an easy, fast-growing, and versatile aquarium plant suitable for beginners and experienced aquascapers. It grows in a wide range of lighting conditions, does not require CO₂ injection, and can be planted, floated, or trained along hardscape. Regular trimming will help keep its growth under control.