Bacopa (usually Bacopa caroliniana or ‘monnieri’) is one of the best beginner stem plants — hardy, forgiving, and slow enough that it doesn’t take over the tank like faster stems. Its rounded leaves grow in neat upright stems that make an excellent green background, and it thrives in low-tech tanks without CO2. This UK guide covers Bacopa care.
Here’s how to grow it.
- Bacopa is a hardy, slow-growing beginner stem plant needing no CO2.
- Its neat upright stems make an excellent green background.
- It's forgiving of light and water but grows fuller under stronger light.
- Propagate by trimming and replanting the tops — it roots readily.
Quick facts
- Light: moderate
- CO2: not required
- Growth: slow to moderate
- Placement: background/midground stem plant
- Water: adaptable, pH 6.0–8.0
Planting and growth
Plant stems a couple of centimetres into the substrate, spaced so light reaches each one. Bacopa is forgiving of light and water but grows fuller and more compact under stronger light. It benefits from liquid fertiliser and root tabs — see plant fertiliser.
Trimming and propagation
To propagate, trim the top few centimetres of a healthy stem and replant it — it roots readily, and the original stem sprouts side shoots. Regular trimming keeps it bushy. Because it grows slowly, Bacopa needs far less maintenance than fast stems like hornwort. Pair it with other easy plants.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bacopa easy to grow?
Yes — it's one of the most forgiving beginner stem plants, tolerating a range of light and water conditions and needing no CO2. Its slow growth also means less trimming than fast stem plants.
Does Bacopa need CO2?
No. Bacopa grows well in low-tech tanks without CO2, though good light and liquid fertiliser help it grow fuller and more compact.
How do you propagate Bacopa?
Trim the top few centimetres of a healthy stem and replant it into the substrate — it roots readily, while the original stem sprouts new side shoots. Regular trimming keeps it bushy.
— Jaqline Smalling, FishForever
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