Floating pennywort
Hydrocotyle ranunculoides
Habitat
Still or slowly moving freshwater.
Key ID features
Shiny, kidney-shaped leaves with crinkled edge.
Forms thick mats of floating or emergent leaves.
Distribution
Scattered in England with records in North Wales. Previously on the Gwent Levels but recently eradicated.
Impacts
Out competes native species by blocking out light, deoxygenating the water, obstructing air-breathing insects from reaching the water surface, and reducing water temperatures. Can cause accidents when animals and humans mistake water covered with floating pennywort for land.
Do’s & Don’ts
DON’T buy from any outlets for aquariums and water gardens – it is against the law for it to be sold.
DO check whether this plant is present in your pond/aquarium - it’s really a monster in disguise!
DO dispose of invasive non-native plants responsibly – leave to dry in a sunny area 3m away from water. Can be composted or burned (in line with local restrictions) once completely dried.
DON’T break the law - Be Plant Wise - don’t dump invasive non-native aquatic plants in the wild or transfer to other ponds. Remember, if you cause floating pennywort to spread you may be guilty of an offence under the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement & Permitting) Order 2019.
More Information
For more information visit the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat website.