Bacopa Caroliniana
Bacopa caroliniana
Edited by Ivan F. · Reviewed
Beginner verdict
An upright stem plant with thick, rounded leaves that smell of lemon when crushed. It grows slowly and steadily in low to medium light and looks best planted in tidy groups. It stays neat with very little trimming, and it prefers cooler water than most stem plants.
- Light
- Low
- CO2
- Not Needed
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- Midground
- Max height
- 12 in (30 cm)
- Temperature
- 68–77 °F (20–25 °C)
- pH
- 5–7.5
- Needs substrate
- Yes
Bacopa Caroliniana care mistakes to avoid
- Plant the stems in groups with a little space, so light reaches the lower leaves.
- Keep it out of very warm tanks, as it prefers cooler water.
- Trim the tops and replant them, rather than letting stems grow bare at the bottom.
- Expect slow growth in low light, which is normal.
How it spreads
Cut healthy stem tops and replant them. Side shoots will grow from the cut stem too.
Bacopa Caroliniana FAQ
How tall does Bacopa Caroliniana grow?
Tropica lists growth to about 30 cm (12 in) in a tank, and it can grow larger over time.
What light does Bacopa Caroliniana need?
Tropica rates its light demand as low. Most standard aquarium lights are enough.
Why does my bacopa lose its lower leaves?
It usually means light is not reaching the bottom of the stems. Thin the group, or trim and replant the healthy tops.
Does bacopa need CO2?
No. It grows well without it, though carbon dioxide and stronger light make it grow faster and denser.
Where to buy Bacopa Caroliniana
Stores that list it under the same scientific name as this page. We earn nothing from these links. We have not bought from them, so check each store's own terms.
Live animals and plants travel by courier. Check the store's live-arrival guarantee, and only buy once your tank has cycled (see how to cycle a fish tank).
Some US states restrict certain species. Check our US state aquarium rules table and your state's own rules before you buy.