Brazilian Pennywort – Live Freshwater Aquarium Plant
Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) is a beautiful green stem plant that thrives in freshwater aquariums. With fast growth and beginner-level care requirements, this background / floating plant is perfect for aquascapers looking to add natural beauty to their tank.
Care Requirements
- Lighting: Low / Medium
- Water Temperature: 68-82°F
- Placement: Background / Floating
- Planting Type: Stem
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Difficulty: Beginner
Planting Tip: Plant individual stems in the substrate with 1-2 inches between each stem. Trim and replant tops to encourage bushier growth.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Live Freshwater Plant |
| Scientific Name | Hydrocotyle leucocephala |
| Origin | South America |
| Best Use | Background or Floating Plant |
FAQ
What is the ideal lighting condition for Brazilian Pennywort?
Brazilian Pennywort thrives under low to medium lighting conditions.
Can this plant be used as a floating plant?
Yes, Brazilian Pennywort can be used as a floating plant and works well in both background and floating setups.
How often should I trim the plant to promote bushier growth?
Trim the tops of the stems every few weeks to encourage bushier growth and maintain a fuller appearance.




Ava Slater –
I’ve had Brazilian Pennywort in my 20-gallon tank for three months. It grows quickly and spreads nicely without needing much maintenance. The green color is vibrant and adds a natural look to the water. I planted it in the background and it’s now covering a good portion of the tank. Easy to care for and perfect for beginners.
Madeleine Young –
The plant arrived fresh and looked healthy. It’s grown well in my medium-light tank. I spaced the stems about 1.5 inches apart and trimmed the tops once a month. It’s become a nice green cover and doesn’t compete with my fish for space.
Michael May –
Great plant for new aquarium owners. It grows fast and stays lush even in low light. I used it as a floating plant and it adds a nice texture to the surface. No issues with algae or root rot so far.