Hydrocotyle leucocephala, commonly known as Brazilian pennywort, is a fast-growing stem plant from South America with distinctive round to heart-shaped bright-green leaves. Its vigorous climbing habit means stems grow upward, emerge at the surface, and spread across the waterline if left untrimmed — creating lush, natural-looking surface cover as well as a useful background plant when kept submerged.
It is one of the easiest stem plants to keep, growing under medium light without CO2 injection. Its rapid growth rate makes it an effective nutrient absorber, and regular trimming keeps the plant bushy and submerged. Cuttings replanted in the substrate root quickly and continue growing without issue.
Supplied as an established potted plant, Hydrocotyle leucocephala suits aquariums from 60 litres upward and is a popular choice for both background planting and floating surface cover. Its ease of care, attractive leaf form, and usefulness in new aquariums make it one of the most recommended stem plants for hobbyists at all levels.