This species with a sub-Mediterranean-sub-Atlantic distribution is present in many regions of Italy, but is in sharp decline and has become extinct over large areas. It grows in swamps and bogs, on the edge of ponds, on wet, muddy soils, from sea level to approximately 1000 m. The species is rare on the edge of the Sardinian temporary ponds. The genus name derives from the Greek 'hydor' (water) and 'kotyle' (small bowl), alluding to the habitat and to the concave, rounded leaves of some species; the species name means 'common, widespread'. Flowering period; May to July.

Italian name(s): Idrocotile (Italia), Soldinella acquatica (Italia), Soldinella aquatica (Toscana).