Also known as: Common water pennywort, Dollarweed, European hydrocotyle
Pennywort is a crawling aquatic perennial plant endemic to North Africa and Europe. When cooked, its leaves smell and taste like carrots. It is edible but should not be consumed in large quantities. This plant is grown for ground cover in ponds, water gardens, and even as a houseplant.
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5 cm to 15 cm
Plant Height
2 m
Spread
Green, Variegated
Leaf Color
1 mm
Flower Size
White, Green, Pink, Purple
Flower Color
Evergreen, Semi-evergreen
Leaf type
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
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Images
Distribution
Care Guide
FAQs
Common Diseases
Images of Pennywort
Distribution of Pennywort
Distribution Map
Pennywort is a plant naturally found across parts of Northern, Central, and Southern Europe, as well as North Africa and Western Asia. This species has also been introduced to regions in East Asia. Its growth extends to both its native lands and areas where it has been cultivated, broadening its geographic presence.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Bogs, fens, marshes
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Northern
Sorthern
Care Guide for Pennywort
Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Partial sun
Sunlight
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water:
Pennywort thrives in moist, wetland-like environments, requiring consistent moisture with watering every 1-2 weeks. It can tolerate brief dry spells and is commonly found in outdoor settings near water, highlighting its need for damp soils in its growth cycle.
Fertilize:
For optimal growth, pennywort requires regular fertilization with a high phosphorus and potassium fertilizer biweekly during spring and summer. Water the soil before applying to protect its roots. Adjust feeding frequency in colder months to enhance pennywort's vigor and lushness.
Pruning:
Pennywort should be pruned in early to late spring to manage growth and encourage vigor. Use clean shears to trim overgrown stems just above a leaf node, promoting new growth. Regular pruning enhances air circulation, reduces disease risk, and aligns with the plant's post-dormancy recovery.
Propagation:
Pennywort is a perennial aquatic plant that thrives in moist conditions. It propagates through division by separating rhizomes or rooted stems. To promote healthy growth, divide in early growth stages and plant in a moisture-retentive substrate for swift establishment.
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