Marsh Pennywort
Pennyworts, especially marsh and water pennywort, are commonly found in Maryland aquatic environments. Marsh pennywort is the more common species. These plants are succulent perennials that are members of the parsley family and native to America. Commonly found rooted in the mud along pond and ditch banks, they can form dense mats that float on the surface. These mats can actually break away from their roots and continue living and growing while free floating. The mats can also support other plants such as smartweeds, beggar-ticks, or alligator-weed. The mats may grow to such a density that they may impede waterflow in drainage canals and ditches, which can affect irrigation. Often, a variety of submersed aquatic plants may be found entangled among the roots. Many species of Hydrocotyle can grow well in either an aquatic or terrestrial habitat. Marsh pennywort can be found in either in the coastal plain or more inland areas of the state. Large populations of marsh pennywort are common during the summer.