Hydrocotyle tripartita 'Mini Variegated'

Hydrocotyle tripartita 'Mini Variegated' is a rare and exquisite new variety introduced by Sreepadma, distinguished by its finely lobed, clover-like leaves adorned with delicate variegation—featuring splashes of white, cream, or pale yellow on bright green foliage. This miniaturized form retains the creeping habit of standard Hydrocotyle tripartita but in a smaller, more refined scale, making it ideal for nano aquascapes and precision layout work.

In aquascaping, H. tripartita 'Mini Variegated' adds a whimsical, textured foreground or accent element, ideal for nature-style tanks, diorama layouts, or artistic Dutch-style contrasts. The variegated foliage introduces a unique brightness and visual complexity not typically found in ground-covering plants. Under optimal conditions, it spreads horizontally, forming a dense mat of intricately colored leaves that respond well to pruning and shaping.

This variety thrives under high lighting and stable CO₂ injection, which help maintain its compact form and enhance the intensity of the variegation. It performs best in nutrient-rich substrates and with consistent water column fertilization, particularly with micronutrients to support vibrant leaf color. While slow to start, once established, it grows steadily and can be trimmed frequently to shape or maintain coverage.

Due to its rarity and sensitivity to inconsistent conditions, it’s best suited for experienced hobbyists who can provide a stable environment. Excessively low lighting or poor nutrients may cause it to lose its variegation or revert to plain green.

Care Tips:

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate is recommended; root tabs optional but supportive.

• Lighting: High lighting needed to retain compactness and promote variegation.

• Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F)

• pH: 5.8–7.0

• Nutrients: Medium to high; responds well to micronutrient-rich liquid fertilizers.

• Propagation: Propagates via creeping runners; can be trimmed and replanted for spread.

Growth: Moderate
Lighting: High
Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F)
pH: 5.8–7.0
Nutrients: Medium to high
Difficulty: Advanced (due to rarity and variegation care)