Hydrocotyle humboldtii
Care, watering, light and tips for Hydrocotyle humboldtii on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Araliaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Hydrocotyle humboldtii
Hydrocotyle humboldtii, commonly known as Humboldt's Pennywort, is a small aquatic or semi-aquatic plant cherished for its round, glossy leaves resembling tiny coins. It is ideal for planted aquariums, paludariums, or as a groundcover in damp garden areas, providing a fresh and delicate touch. Its creeping growth habit makes it perfect for forming green carpets.
Native range
South America (Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia, and Venezuela)
Care tips
It requires medium to high light for compact and healthy growth, although it tolerates some shade. Keep the substrate consistently moist or submerged, as it is a water-loving plant that does not tolerate drought. It prefers nutrient-rich soils and a slightly acidic to neutral pH. A common mistake is allowing it to dry out completely, which can lead to leaf loss and poor growth.
How to save a dying Hydrocotyle humboldtii
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, soft leaves, watery or wilted stems. Plant looks limp and lifeless.
- First aid
- Remove damaged leaves, reduce watering, improve drainage. If in water, change it. If in soil, check moisture.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and lack of light. It doesn't tolerate waterlogging or dense shade.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It's quite resilient if you correct the environment.