The pennywort continues to grow even when the water is literally up to the top of the shoot. This beautiful swamp plant has now also found its way into aquariums. But even in this special habitat, the plant remains easy to care for.
How do you care for pennywort in the aquarium?
Pennigkraut is ideal for aquariums as it tolerates different water values (pH value 6-8, total hardness 10-20°dGH) and thrives in different lighting situations. The water temperature in the aquarium should be between 10 and 26 °C, and the plant can easily be propagated through cuttings.
His area in the aquarium
The pennywort grows creeping by the pond, hanging in the balcony box. In the aquarium, however, its shoots straighten up and reach a length of up to 40 cm. That's why the herb is well suited for the back area of the aquarium. If the scissors (€14.00 on Amazon) are used frequently, a lower, bushy shape can be achieved, which also allows placement in the middle area of the pelvis.
Ideal water values
Since this plant can also be found growing wild in the local area, it is well adapted to different water conditions. The pH value can vary between 6 and 8, while the overall hardness of 10 to 20°dGH is acceptable.
The native plant loves cooler temperatures. It doesn't cope well with tropical temperatures in the aquarium.
- Water temperature should not climb above 26 °C
- lower limit is 10 °C
Light requirement depends on temperature
The Pfennighaus grows outside in shade to partial shade, and in sufficiently moist places also sunny. In the aquarium, its light requirement depends on the water temperature. The higher this is, the more light the plant needs. If she doesn't get enough of it, her shoots will grow taller and remain comparatively bare.
Propagation and Limitation
Because the stems of pennywort tend to rise upwards in the aquarium, the plant is more effective in groups. You can easily propagate your own using 10-15 cm long cuttings that are planted in the ground.
If the herb has settled well in the tank, it can sometimes grow more strongly than desired. So that it doesn't crowd out other plants, regular cutting is an indispensable point of care and can be carried out at any time if necessary.
No flowering period under water
The pennywort will decorate the underwater world primarily with its green leaves. They are in demand as food for apple snails. Goldfish and shrimp also love the herb.
However, there will be no flowering in the water. Only when the tank is open and the shoots can grow out will the yellow flowers appear.
