AQUA ART Bacopa caroliniana

Bacopa caroliniana, commonly known as Lemon Bacopa or Carolina Bacopa, is a popular and versatile aquarium plant known for its bright green leaves and distinctive lemony scent when crushed. This hardy plant belongs to the Plantaginaceae family and is favoured by aquarists for its easy care and adaptability to various aquarium conditions. Bacopa caroliniana is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced aquarists looking to add greenery to their tanks.

Physical Characteristics:

1. Leaf Structure: The leaves of Bacopa caroliniana are thick, oval-shaped, and bright green. They grow in opposite pairs along the stem and can develop a reddish tint under high-light conditions.

2. Growth Form: Bacopa caroliniana has a vertical growth habit, with stems reaching up to 30-50 cm in height. It forms dense, bushy clusters, making it an ideal midground or background plant in aquascapes.

3. Stem Structure: The sturdy stems support the dense foliage. Compared to some other stem plants, the plant grows relatively slowly, allowing for easier maintenance and shaping.

Aquarium Requirements:

1. Lighting: Bacopa caroliniana thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions. While it can tolerate lower light levels, higher lighting promotes more vibrant growth and the development of reddish hues on the leaves.

2. Substrate: Bacopa caroliniana can grow in various substrates, but it performs best in nutrient-rich substrates that provide essential nutrients to the roots. Aquasoil or enriched gravel substrates are ideal choices.

3. CO2 and Fertilization: While not strictly necessary, the addition of carbon dioxide (CO2) and regular fertilisation can enhance the growth rate and overall health of Bacopa caroliniana. Liquid fertilisers that provide macro and micronutrients will support robust growth.

4. Water Parameters: Bacopa caroliniana prefers water conditions within a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and a water hardness level of soft to moderately hard. The ideal temperature range is between 22 to 28°C.

Propagation: Bacopa caroliniana is easily propagated through stem cuttings. Cut healthy stems and replant them in the substrate. Each cutting should have several nodes to ensure successful rooting and growth. The cuttings will quickly develop roots and continue to grow, forming new clusters.

Maintenance: Bacopa caroliniana maintenance involves regular pruning to control height and encourage bushier growth. Trimming the stems prevents them from becoming leggy and helps maintain the plant’s compact and lush appearance. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy.

Aquascaping Use: Bacopa caroliniana is versatile for various aquascaping styles. It is often used as a midground or background plant to add height and structure to the aquarium. Its bright green leaves provide a fresh, vibrant contrast against darker or red-coloured plants. Bacopa caroliniana’s sturdy stems also make it a good candidate for planting along the sides and back of the aquarium to create a natural, layered look.

Challenges: Bacopa caroliniana is generally hardy and easy to care for, with few challenges. However, it may become leggy and lose its lower leaves without sufficient light. Regular trimming and maintaining appropriate light levels help prevent this issue.

Bacopa caroliniana is an attractive and adaptable aquarium plant that enhances the visual appeal of freshwater aquariums. Its bright green foliage, ease of care, and versatility make it a popular choice for aquarists of all experience levels. With proper lighting, substrate, and regular maintenance, Bacopa caroliniana can thrive and contribute to a lush, vibrant aquascape.

Plants with great success!

Tissue Cultures are very young plants cultivated and delivered directly from the laboratory. The plants are guaranteed to be free from snails, algae and pesticides and, therefore, are harmless for sensitive shrimp and fish.

Success with your aquarium depends largely on the proper plant choice. In a Tissue Culture cup, you get many plants that can be divided into small portions and cover a larger area. Plants are compact from the start, so you will experience dense and beautiful growth if you give them the right fertiliser and CO2!

• Carefully take the plant out of the cup and rinse off the growing media.
• To prevent mildew and algae, rinse with chlorine-free water.
• Split the plant into portions using your fingers or scissors.
• Plant portions into the substrate using tweezers or attach to the hardscape in case of rhizomatous. 

Then watch them grow!

Origin
Country or continent where a plant is the most common. Cultivars arise or are bred in cultivation.

Growth Rate
Growth rate of the plant compared to other aquatic plants.

Height
Average height (cm) of the plant after two months in the tank.

Light Demand
The average or medium light demand of an aquarium plant is 0.5 W/L.

CO2 Demand
A medium need in CO2 is 6-14 mg/L. A high demand in CO2 is approx. 15-25 mg/L.