How to Grow Pennyworth
Pennyworth
Hydrocotyle asiatica
herbPennyworth, also known as Asiatic pennywort or gotu kola, is a creeping herbaceous plant with small, circular leaves native to wetlands of Asia. It grows as a ground cover or trailing vine and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and cooking throughout Southeast Asia. The plant thrives in moist conditions and is highly valued for its nutritional and potential health-promoting properties.
When should you plant Pennyworth in your zone?
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Example Pennyworth timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pennyworth
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Pennyworth
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pennyworth dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 9b-11; can be grown indoors or in containers in cooler climates
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with small, round cotyledons and the first true leaves appear within 1-2 weeks
Keep soil consistently moist; maintain humidity; provide bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun which can cause wilting
Vegetative Growth
3-6 weeksThe plant develops trailing stems with characteristic small, round, scalloped leaves arranged in clusters; nodes form along the stems
Maintain moist, humid conditions; provide partial shade; fertilize every 2-3 weeks with balanced or slightly nitrogen-rich fertilizer; mist leaves regularly
Establishment
4-8 weeksThe plant spreads vigorously, forming dense mats of foliage with multiple stems rooting at nodes; overall coverage increases substantially
Continue regular watering and humidity; thin out crowded sections if desired; apply mulch to retain moisture; monitor for pests in warm conditions
Mature Growth
Ongoing once matureA full, bushy ground cover or trailing plant with abundant foliage; small, delicate white or purplish flowers may appear (though less common indoors)
Pinch back stem tips to encourage bushiness; continue consistent watering and humidity; harvest leaves regularly for culinary use; apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Harvesting
Continuous from 30-60 days onwardLeaves are at peak freshness and nutritional value; the plant continues to produce new growth even as mature leaves are harvested
Pinch or cut stems just above a node to encourage branching; harvest regularly to promote bushiness; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity by misting; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; isolate affected plants; ensure good air circulation
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Remove with cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol; spray with neem oil; isolate affected plants; monitor regularly
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Scrape off manually; treat with horticultural oil or neem oil; maintain healthy humidity levels to prevent infestations
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid wetting foliage; reduce humidity slightly if infection occurs; apply fungicide if severe
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Ensure soil drains well despite moisture needs; do not allow soil to become waterlogged; repot in fresh soil if affected; reduce watering frequency
Uses
Fresh salads and smoothies
CulinaryThe tender, slightly bitter and slightly sweet leaves are eaten fresh in Southeast Asian cuisine, added to salads, smoothies, and juices. The leaves are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy and cognitive support
MedicinalPennyworth has been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to support mental clarity, memory, and circulation. Modern research has investigated its potential triterpene compounds and their effects on cognitive function. [source]
Skin health and wound healing
MedicinalThe plant is traditionally used to support skin health and is believed to aid in wound healing and tissue repair. It is sometimes applied topically in creams or infusions for this purpose. [source]
Herbal tea and infusions
HouseholdFresh or dried leaves can be steeped to create a mild herbal tea with a slightly bitter, earthy flavor. This traditional beverage is consumed for potential wellness benefits in Southeast Asia. [source]
Indoor ornamental ground cover
HouseholdWith its delicate, attractive foliage and trailing growth habit, pennyworth serves as an excellent decorative houseplant for hanging baskets, terrariums, and moist indoor gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting young leaves and stems once the plant is 4-6 weeks old and has established multiple stems. Pinch or cut leaves just above a node to encourage branching and bushiness. Harvest regularly and frequently—the more you harvest, the bushier the plant becomes. Pick leaves in the morning for best flavor and nutrient content. Use fresh leaves immediately for maximum nutritional value, or dry them for storage. You can harvest continuously throughout the growing season without significantly harming the plant, as long as you do not remove more than one-third of the foliage at one time.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pennyworth gets its common name from its small, coin-shaped leaves that resemble old English pennies; 'gotu kola' comes from Sinhalese and means 'bowl plant' because the leaves naturally form a bowl-like shape.
- 🌱 In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, pennyworth has been called a 'brain tonic' for over 3,000 years and was said to enhance meditation and longevity according to ancient texts.
- 🌱 The plant is sometimes called 'fortune plant' in Asia because it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity when grown in the home.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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