Bacopa Japanese

Bacopa japonica, scientific name Bacopa serpyllifolia. Despite the name, it does not grow in Asia, in particular in Japan, but comes from a completely different continent – the tropical part of South America. The reason for this confusion is that this plant gained its popularity in the aquarium trade precisely in Japan and from there relatively recently spread to Europe (since 2012) and the USA (since 2014).

It has a characteristic appearance for most Bacopa: an upright stem and leaves arranged in pairs of a somewhat elongated oval shape. The color is bright green. Bacopa japonica grows to only 20 cm, but in favorable conditions grows rapidly, forming dense clusters or a bush, which is especially appreciated in natural aquascaping. Propagated by lateral shoots or by dividing the stem in half. The separated fragment is planted and soon gives roots, turning into an independent plant.

Very demanding on their care. Needs a high level of light, very soft acidic water, and a nutrient-rich substrate. You should be careful about choosing other plants, especially floating ones, which can unnecessarily shade the aquarium.