Introduction
Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. is a species of herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Apiaceae. This creeping and mat-forming plant is commonly known as the shield pennywort and is native to many regions of the world.
Origin and Distribution
The shield pennywort has a cosmopolitan distribution and is found in many parts of the world including Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America. It is a wetland plant that thrives in damp soils, swamps, marshes, and along the edges of ponds, lakes, and streams.
Common Names
The plant Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. is commonly known by many names including:
- Shield Pennywort
- Marsh Pennywort
- Floating Pennywort
- Water Pennywort
- Whiteweed
General Appearance
The shield pennywort has fleshy, round leaves that are arranged in a circular formation on the stem. The leaves are green and shiny, and can be up to 10cm in diameter. The stem of the plant is thin and wiry, and can grow up to 50cm in length. The plant produces minute white flowers that are arranged in umbels and bloom from June to August. The plant spreads by runners that attach to the soil and form new plantlets.
Uses
The shield pennywort has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, coughs, digestive disorders, and skin conditions. The plant is also used in aquariums and water gardens as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and ability to spread and cover large areas. However, caution is advised when using this plant in water gardens, as it can become invasive and dominate other aquatic plants.
Light Requirements
The plant Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but if kept in too much shade, the plant may become elongated and weak. It is best to keep the plant in a sunny location, but protection from the hottest afternoon sun may be necessary in warmer climates.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adaptable to a wide range of temperatures. It can withstand moderate frost, but prolonged exposure to extreme cold may damage the plant. Ideally, the plant should be kept in a temperature range of 20-30°C (68-86°F). However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 5°C (41°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as the plant does not tolerate standing water. Sandy soils with low nutrient content may require amending with organic matter to improve soil fertility and provide necessary nutrients.
Cultivation
Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud., commonly known as Roundleaf Pennywort, is an aquatic plant that can be easily propagated. It can be grown in ponds and containers, and its cultivation methods are simple and straightforward.
The plant prefers nutrient-rich substrate like loamy soil or clay and requires a partially shaded environment. It can also be grown in shallow water up to a depth of 6 inches.
To propagate the plant, cuttings from the stems or runners can be planted directly into the substrate.
Watering Needs
Since Hydrocotyle tabularis is an aquatic plant, it requires a consistently moist environment. Ensure that containers and ponds have consistent access to clean, fresh water.
It's essential to regularly check the water levels and keep them topped up, especially during hot weather when the water level can evaporate quickly. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilization
Hydrocotyle tabularis thrives in nutrient-rich environments. During the growing season, fertilize the plants using a balanced liquid fertilizer at least every two weeks. You can dilute the fertilizer at half strength before application.
Avoid applying too much fertilizer, as this can lead to algae growth or other water quality issues.
Pruning
Pruning promotes new growth and prevents the plant from becoming overgrown and unsightly. Trim the stems and runners regularly, removing any dead or yellowing leaves.
If the plant becomes too large, you can also trim the leaves back to a suitable size. However, avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at any one time.
Propagation of Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud.
Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. is a creeping perennial herb that grows well in wet soils and shallow water bodies. Propagation of this plant can be done through several means, including:
Sexual Propagation
The plant reproduces sexually through the production of small, white flowers that are held above the leaves. The flowers are self-fertile and pollinated by insects.
Once pollinated, the flowers form small fruits that contain one seed each. The seeds can be collected and sown in well-drained soil. However, this method is not commonly used for propagating Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. since it can be difficult to get viable seeds and germination rates are low.
Asexual Propagation
The most effective way to propagate Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. is through asexual means. The plant has the ability to spread vegetatively through its creeping stems, which root at the nodes. The stems can be cut and transplanted to another area where they will take root and form a new plant.
Another asexual propagation method is through division. This involves digging up an established plant and separating it into smaller sections, each with a portion of the stem and some roots. The divisions can then be replanted in new locations to create new plants. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing.
Care for Cuttings and Divisions
When propagating Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. through cuttings or divisions, it is essential to keep the plants well-watered. The roots are shallow, so the plants need a consistent supply of moisture. Once they are established, they should be able to grow without additional watering.
Regularly fertilizing the plants with a balanced fertilizer can also help encourage growth and keep the plants healthy.
Propagation of Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. is relatively easy and can be done through a range of methods. With proper care, the plant can quickly establish itself and produce an attractive groundcover in wet areas.
Disease and Pest Management for Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud.
Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. is a delicate plant that requires thorough care to remain healthy. One way to keep it healthy is by managing diseases and pests properly. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. and management techniques:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spots are caused by fungal or bacterial infections, and it manifests as dark or light spots on the leaves. It can lead to leaf fall and even plant death. To manage leaf spot:
- Remove infected leaves and destroy them immediately.
- Apply fungicides or bactericides to affected areas as prescribed by a plant pathologist.
- Avoid over-irrigation, as this can worsen the symptoms.
2. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that primarily affects the roots, leading to reduced water absorption, stunted growth, and even plant death. To manage root rot:
- Remove any infected plant and dispose of them carefully.
- Ensure proper drainage and avoid waterlogged soil.
- Apply fungicides as prescribed by the plant pathologist, and ensure that the soil is sterilized before use.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are common pests that feed on plant sap, leading to the decline of the plant's overall health. To manage Aphids:
- Spray insecticidal soap or neem oil to affected areas.
- Release beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps to prey on Aphids.
- Introduce companion planting to deter Aphids.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites damage leaves by extracting sap, leading to weakening and death of the plant. To manage spider mites:
- Spray the plant with water to remove the mites and their webbing.
- Spray the plant with miticides as prescribed by the plant pathologist.
- Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this makes them more susceptible to spider mites.
Conclusion
Managing diseases and pests is critical in keeping Hydrocotyle tabularis Steud. healthy. Regular check for symptoms and applying timely interventions can help prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Remember to use protective gear when applying chemical pesticides and herbicides.
