Bacopa
Chaenostoma cordatum
Sutera cordata
About this plant
Chaenostoma cordatum, commonly known as Bacopa, is a charming flowering plant known for its small, delicate white or pale blue flowers and trailing growth habit. It's often used in hanging baskets, containers, and as ground cover. The plant blooms profusely in warm weather, adding a soft, attractive touch to gardens and patios.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Chaenostoma
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Higher classification
- Lamiales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Africa
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in gardens worldwide, originally native to South Africa.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, Southeast-facing, Southwest-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15–25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9–11
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining potting mix
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot weather.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Chaenostoma cordatum is a hardy and easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in sunny spots. It prefers well-draining soil and regular watering but can tolerate short dry periods. It rarely faces serious problems and requires minimal maintenance, making it suitable for beginners.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Seeds
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring–summer
Delicate trailing stems with small, heart-shaped leaves and numerous small, five-petaled flowers that create a soft, cascading effect.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for households with children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Chaenostoma cordatum may cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, mainly due to its pollen. People with pollen allergies should handle it with care and avoid prolonged exposure during its flowering period to reduce symptoms like sneezing or itchy eyes.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot, and poor drainage may lead to fungal issues. Lack of sunlight can reduce flowering and cause leggy growth.
Uses
Popular as an ornamental plant for hanging baskets, window boxes, and ground cover due to its attractive trailing habit and abundant flowers.
Notes
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot annually if grown in containers to refresh soil and prevent root crowding.