Pronunciation: [pˈɛni ɡɹˈas] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "penny grass" can be confusing for English learners because the /ni/ sound in "penny" can easily be mistaken for an /e/ sound. The correct IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˈpɛni ɡræs/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short /ɛ/ sound, and the second syllable has a short /æ/ sound. "Penny" is spelled with two n's to indicate that the vowel is short, not long like in "pen."
Penny grass is a term that is commonly used to refer to a few different species of grasses within the genus Hydrocotyle. These grasses are typically found in wet or marshy areas and are named after the small coin-like shape of their leaves, resembling a penny.
Penny grasses are often low-growing, perennial plants with creeping stems that spread horizontally, forming dense mats or carpets. They commonly have round or kidney-shaped leaves that are typically green in color, and some species may have leaflets with scalloped or toothed edges. The leaves of penny grasses are often connected to the stems by long petioles, which allow them to float on the surface of water or bend downwards in moist soil.
These grasses are well-adapted to wet environments and are often found in marshlands, ditches, and along the banks of ponds or streams. They thrive in areas with ample moisture, but can also tolerate periods of drought to some extent. Penny grasses are considered to be beneficial to wetland ecosystems as they help prevent erosion, filter water, and provide habitat for various types of wildlife.
While penny grasses have some ornamental value and can be used in aquatic or wetland gardens, they are generally considered to be more of a functional plant rather than an aesthetic one. They are known for their resilience and ability to withstand various environmental conditions, making them an important element of marshland ecosystems.
