Pennywort Aquatic Plant (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) – Fast-growing floating or rooted plant ideal for shrimp & fish tanks; boosts oxygen & biofiltration.

$8.95

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Quantity: 3 stems (6–8 inches each)

Add a touch of vibrant life and natural balance to your aquarium with Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) — a fast-growing aquatic plant prized for its delicate, round leaves and effortless beauty. Native to Central and South America, this versatile species can grow rooted, floating, or even trailing, adapting to nearly any aquarium setup. Its lush, cascading foliage provides cover for shrimp and fry, enhances tank aesthetics, and contributes to a thriving, balanced aquatic ecosystem.


🌱 Why You’ll Love It

  • Exceptional Growth: Pennywort grows rapidly under moderate to high light, creating dense, attractive greenery that softens any aquascape.

  • Versatile Placement: It can be planted in substrate, allowed to float freely, or trained to climb — ideal for both aquariums and paludariums.

  • Perfect for Shrimp & Fish: Its broad leaves and root-like stems offer excellent shelter and grazing surfaces, promoting natural behaviors and shrimp survival.

  • Natural Filtration: Helps absorb excess nutrients, boost oxygenation, and support biological balance in the tank.

  • Low Maintenance: Adaptable to a range of water conditions and temperatures, making it a great choice for beginners and experts alike.


🌊 Growing & Care Tips

  • Light Requirements: Moderate to bright light keeps the leaves vibrant and compact. In lower light, the plant stretches upward toward the surface.

  • CO₂ & Fertilizer: CO₂ is optional, but a nutrient-rich substrate or occasional liquid fertilizer enhances growth and color.

  • Water Conditions:

    • Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)

    • pH: 6.0–7.8

    • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

  • Growth Rate: Fast — trim regularly to prevent overgrowth and maintain a balanced tank environment.

  • Propagation: Simply cut healthy stems and replant — roots develop quickly!


🦐 Benefits in Shrimp & Fish Tanks

Pennywort is a favorite among shrimp breeders for good reason. Its fine root structures and leaf surfaces naturally collect biofilm and microalgae — a crucial food source for baby shrimp. Meanwhile, small fish and fry enjoy hiding among its stems, reducing stress and promoting healthy growth.

It also plays a role in algae control by competing for nutrients and shading portions of the tank, making it a valuable part of any low-maintenance aquatic ecosystem.


🌾 Uses Beyond the Aquarium

Beyond its aquarium appeal, Pennywort thrives in terrariums, paludariums, and ripariums. When partially emersed, its leaves grow larger and more rounded, forming elegant runners that enhance humidity-loving enclosures.


💧 Key Highlights

  • Scientific Name: Hydrocotyle leucocephala

  • Common Names: Brazilian Pennywort, Water Pennywort

  • Growth Form: Stem or floating plant

  • Placement: Foreground to background or floating layer

  • Maintenance Level: Easy

  • Tank Size: Suitable for nano tanks to large aquascapes


🌟 Why Choose This Plant

Whether you’re cultivating a lush shrimp habitat, designing a tropical aquascape, or simply adding greenery to your water garden, Pennywort is an adaptable beauty that grows where others fail. Its elegant, coin-like leaves, coupled with its oxygenating and filtration benefits, make it an essential addition for natural aquarium lovers.

Create a self-sustaining ecosystem with Pennywort — nature’s perfect green companion for balanced, thriving aquatic life. 🌿💦