Botanical name:

Hydrocotyle moschata

Common name(s):

Musky marsh pennywort, Hairy pennywort

About:

They are typically regarded as weeds and are not generally cultivated or intentionally grown in the garden, but Hydrocotyle moschata can serve as a highly useful ground-cover plant for damp areas, thriving in conditions of either full sun or semi-shade. This versatile plant features very small, rounded leaves that are slightly lobed and adorned with finely serrated edges, adding a delicate texture to its surroundings.

Natural habitat:

Will grow in a wide variety of habitats, from dark, damp forest patches to the margins of open grassland

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wetland, Wind, Coastal, Free draining tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

Throughout New Zealand’s main Islands although it is more common in warmer parts of the country.

Height: 3cm

Flowering:

October–March

Fruiting:

November-April

Uses:

Ground cover

How to grow:

Easily grown from fresh division.