Bacopa australis

Scientific name: Bacopa australis

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 6 - 30 cm (2.36 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6.2 - 7.9

Recommended water hardness: 0 - 30°dGH (0 - 535.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 20 - 29 °C (68 - 84.2°F)

Preferred propagation method: Cuttings

Native to: South America

Growth rate: Fast

Recommended substrate: Gravel

Lighting requirements: Medium

Ideal placement in tank: Background

🌿 Common Name

Bacopa australis (sometimes called Southern Bacopa)

🌍 Origin

Bacopa australis is native to South America, particularly in southern regions of Brazil. Despite the name “australis” meaning “southern,” it has no connection to Australia, which is a common misconception.

💧 Growing Conditions

This species thrives in both submerged and emersed environments. When fully submerged in aquariums, it produces compact, vibrant green stems and leaves. Under intense lighting, new growth may develop a faint reddish or bronze tint, especially with added iron supplementation.

It grows best in nutrient-rich gravel or fine substrate, and benefits from medium to bright lighting. Under high light, it stays short and spreads horizontally, sometimes forming a natural carpet. In lower light, it tends to grow vertically toward the surface, becoming leggier.

📍 Placement in the Aquarium

Depending on tank size and lighting, Bacopa australis is suited for the foreground, midground, or background. In nano tanks, it works as a background plant. In larger tanks, it shines as a midground filler or even a foreground carpet under high-intensity light.

🌱 Propagation

Propagation is simple and fast using stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem, remove the lower leaves, and plant it directly into the substrate. New roots will develop quickly and the cutting will form a new plant.

Occasionally, lateral shoots will develop from mature stems. These can also be replanted, but most aquarists prefer stem cuttings for quicker results.

⚙️ Difficulty

Very easy. Bacopa australis is beginner-friendly, tolerant of variable water conditions, and forgiving of small maintenance lapses. It thrives with basic care, as long as lighting and nutrients are adequate.

📝 Short Description

Bacopa australis is a charming, fast-growing plant that adapts to a variety of aquarium layouts. Whether used as a low carpet or a mid-height bush, it adds softness and color to aquascapes. Its ability to grow submerged or emersed also makes it suitable for paludariums and open-top tanks. Regular trimming encourages bushier growth, and propagation is straightforward. This makes it a popular choice for aquascapers of all levels.