PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect to partial direct sunlight; tolerates full sun in cool temperate regions
Watering
Keep soil constantly moist or submerged 1–2 cm deep; avoid allowing substrate to dry out completely
Temperature
Thrives in cool to temperate temperatures; avoid frost and extreme heat exceeding 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Tiny fleshy obovate leaves arranged in opposite pairs along slender stems
- Flower: Small white star-shaped blooms with 4–5 petals, held just above foliage
- Stem: Creeping stems that root at nodes in moist soil or shallow water
Care Guide
Watering
Keep substrate fully moist or submerged 1–2 cm deep; monitor water quality for indoor setups
Fertilization
Diluted, balanced liquid feed once every 2 months. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent algal growth in aquatic setups
Eggshell powder topdress：Grind dried eggshells to a fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface, avoiding direct contact with foliage to prevent burningPruning
- Trim overgrown mats to control spread, especially in natural water bodies where it may become invasive
- Remove yellowing or decaying foliage to maintain plant health and water clarity
- Thin dense growth annually in spring to improve airflow and light penetration
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: No reported toxicity to cats
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental groundcover for pond edges, bog gardens, and indoor water trays; considered invasive in some European regions
