Bacopa monnieri

Scientific name: Bacopa monnieri

Family: Scrophulariaceae

Usual maximum size in aquariums: 25 - 50 cm (9.84 - 19.69 inch)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 6.3 - 8.8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 8 - 30°N (142.86 - 535.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 20 - 27 °C (68 - 80.6°F)

Reproduction of the plant: Lateral shoots

Origin (in the wild): Everywhere

How fast these plants grow: Slow

Recommended substrate: Fine gravel

Demands on lighting: Bright

Ideal placement in a fish tank: Background

Common Names

Coastal Waterhyssop, Brahmi, Thyme-leafed gratiola, Water hyssop are common names of Bacopa monnieri.

Origin

Widespread; this species is found in many parts of Asia as well as many of the southern states of the USA.

Propagation

Lateral shoots; remove the side shoots from the plant in order to reproduce it - and remove the bottom leaves to reveal a bare stem at the bottom of the cutting. This is then simply placed into the substrate, take care not to crush the base of the stem, and it will soon root to form a new plant. Nutrients (liquid and granulated aquairum plant fertilisers should be used) are necessary for proper growth of new plants as well as of newly introduced plants to the tank.

Difficulty

Easy

Short Description

This plant is just as happy submerged as it is on boggy conditions. They will flower on a regular basis but these will soon rot if underwater and it is very rare that seeds will be formed. It is used in many medicines especially for epilepsy and asthma, in Vietnam is is also used in their cuisine.