Panny Wort in 6 “Pot

A genus of low, creeping herbaceous perennials in the Araliaceae family, found in wetlands, bogs, pond margins, and moist lawns worldwide. Plants spread by slender stolons/runners that root at nodes, forming dense mats. Leaves are round to kidney-shaped, 1–5 cm (0.5–2 in) wide, glossy green with shallow scalloped or toothed edges; petioles attach near the leaf center or margin, giving an “umbrella” look. Height is only 5–20 cm (2–8 in), but spread can be 0.3–6 m (1–20 ft) if unchecked. Tiny, inconspicuous greenish-white umbel flowers appear in summer; fruits are small, flat capsules.

Quick care: full sun to partial shade (brighter light keeps growth compact; tolerates shade). Keep soil consistently moist to wet—ideal for bog gardens, pond edges, or containers standing in 2–5 cm (1–2 in) of water; can even grow submerged as an aquarium plant (Brazilian pennywort). Use moisture-retentive humus, loam, or clay; pH tolerant (acid to neutral). Temps 10–28 °C (50–82 °F); cool summers preferred for some species. High humidity appreciated (40–80 %). Feed lightly every 2–4 weeks in growing season with balanced fertilizer. Propagate by division or stem cuttings—root easily at nodes. Trim regularly to control spread; can be invasive in warm, wet climates (some Hydrocotyle are banned in parts of Europe). Generally pest-free; watch for mint rust. Leaves are edible (mild carrot/parsley flavor) in small amounts, but confirm species.