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Bacopa Caroliniana (Bacopa caroliniana)

Bacopa caroliniana is the slow-and-steady stem plant: thick succulent-like leaves on upright stalks that hold their shape between trims, ideal for orderly Dutch-style rows. It is among the most forgiving stems for low-tech tanks, asking only decent light. Under strong light the upper leaves blush copper to bronze-pink, and stems allowed to break the surface of an open-top tank can produce small blue-purple flowers.

Care specifications

TypeStem
DifficultyEasy
LightMedium (30–55 µmol PAR)
CO2Not needed
Fertilizer demandMedium
Growth rateSlow
Max height12 in
Spread3 in
PlacementMidground, Background
Attaches to hardscapeNo
Snail & shrimp safeYes
Temperature68–82 °F
pH6–7.8
ColorGreen
TrimmingRegular
StylesDutch, Nature

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Bacopa Caroliniana

Bacopa (Bacopa Caroliniana)

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Propagation

Top the stems and replant the cuttings; bare lower stems regrow side shoots.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my Bacopa smell like lemon when trimmed?

Crushed leaves of this species release a citrus-mint scent — it is sometimes grown as a pond herb for exactly that reason. The smell is normal and harmless to the tank.

Why is my Bacopa losing its lower leaves?

Lower-leaf drop means the base is shaded, usually by the stem's own canopy. Trim and replant the healthy tops a little farther apart so light reaches down each stem, and the new growth will stay clothed to the substrate.

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