Whorled pennywort

Description

Hydrocotyle verticillata is commonly found in warmer regions of the Americas and thrives in very moist soils or shallow water. Its leaves are shaped like tiny parasols with no slots. In an aquarium, this plant's growth is influenced by light intensity, with more intense light resulting in a smaller plant. The plant requires balanced nutrients and CO2 supply for optimal growth, but excessive nutrient addition can lead to larger leaf size. Unlike H. leucocephala, H. verticillata grows as a creeping carpet along the substrate when submerged. Its unique, mushroom-like leaves and low height make it suitable for foreground use, either alone in larger aquaria or accentuating smaller tanks.