1. Introduction
【Child】Oh wise one, I recently read a poem that mentioned a certain aquatic plant known as pennywort. The poet compared its floating leaves to the moon, and its trailing roots to a maiden yearning for her lover, and I wish to see this plant for myself! Can you enlighten me on this wonderful aquatic greenery and teach me the ways of the aquarium?
【Professor】Ah, my young friend! Your thirst for knowledge ignites a spark in my soul. Pennywort, also known as Hydrocotyle, is indeed a fascinating aquatic plant. A graceful artist within the aquarium, this plant creates a lush landscape beneath the enchanted waters, enticing both creatures and humans alike. With its alluring greenery, it weaves a tapestry of deep connections for the dwellers of the underwater realm. And in this very article, we shall traverse the mysterious world of this magnificent aquatic plant!
2. Characteristics
【Child】Then tell me, kind mentor, what makes the pennywort such an exquisite sight to behold? Its delicate leaves, do they resemble the round face of a fairy or perchance the golden coins of folklore?
【Professor】Ah, you have an eye for detail! Pennywort’s leaves are indeed round and reminiscent of playful fairies or enchanted gold coins. They radiate from the plant’s center in a whorled pattern, creating lovely skyscrapers beneath the water’s surface. Its colors range from a vibrant green to a soft, soothing one, with leaves varying in size from 1-4 inches in diameter. The plant reaches for the sky with stems that can grow from 6 inches to 3 feet tall!
Pennywort possesses a mysterious adaptability, making it a befitting artist in any aquarium canvas. Whether in a tiny pool or a vast oceanarium, its formation and growth will enhance the scene. The plant flourishes when placed in the middle or background of an aquarium, pulling in the curious gazes of onlookers as it reaches its full potential.
3. Cultivation
【Child】Ah, so this aquatic wonder must be a fickle mistress, known only to the most learned of aquatic plant keepers!
【Professor】Fret not, young one! While pennywort is indeed an elegant masterpiece, it is not exclusive to the masterful hand of an aquatic Picasso. Even a tenderfoot aquarist can tame this emerald beauty! Pennywort is quite forgiving when it comes to light conditions and can survive in moderate to fairly bright light. It is a plant that can make do without an abundance of CO2 requirements and can weather through various pH, GH, and KH levels, making it a strength in the underwater realm.
The temperatures that suit pennywort’s whimsical nature range from 68 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (20-28 degrees Celsius), allowing it to luxuriate in both cooler and warmer climes.
As for the underwater soils of which pennywort builds its foundations, it does not discriminate! It can flourish in different bottom sand types and can appreciate a balanced dose of fertilizers to bloom gracefully.
And for those who dare to venture into the world above water’s embrace, pennywort reveals yet another exquisite form! The plant can propagate not only underwater but also grow emersed, its leaves and stems reaching towards the sky in search of the sun’s warm embrace.
4. Precautions
【Child】Now that you have shared these secrets, are there any warnings or dangers lurking within the shadows of pennywort’s ethereal presence? Does it reign supreme or coexist with its fellow inhabitants?
【Professor】While pennywort is a gentle soul in the underwater kingdom, there are precautions to be taken. As it has a tendency for rapid growth, tirelessly trimming its stems and leaves is crucial to avoid it claiming unchallenged dominions in your underwater kingdom. This plant has the heart of Robin Hood, sharing its riches with the creatures dwelling around it, inviting shrimps and fish alike to find solace in its protective foliage. However, one must be cautious of destructive tank mates, as leaves so fair can be tempting morsels for nibblers and plant grazers.
5. Summary
【Child】Having heard thy wisdom, dear mentor, I am now ready to explore the aquatic realms in search of pennywort blooms!
【Professor】Ah, my wise protégé, I am proud to have shared this journey with you. We have sailed the seas of pennywort’s realm, diving into her charming characteristics, her unique adaptability, and her undemanding nature. We have traversed her harmonious coexistence with tank mates and uncovered her alluring propagation methods both under and above the waters. Now, as you embark on your own quest, armed with this knowledge, I am certain that the enchanting world of pennywort will forever be graced with your presence.