Bacopa (Chaenostoma cordatum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Bacopa on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Scrophulariaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Bacopa
Chaenostoma cordatum, commonly known as 'snöflinga' or 'snowflak', is a charming low-growing, spreading perennial, ideal for groundcover or hanging baskets. It produces a profusion of tiny white or lavender flowers reminiscent of small snowflakes, creating a delicate and ethereal effect. It is perfect for borders, rock gardens, or as a filler plant in flower beds where a soft and continuous look is desired.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It prefers full sun to light partial shade for optimal flowering. It requires regular watering to keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, especially in warm climates. Use a well-drained substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is allowing the substrate to dry out completely, which can lead to flower drop and poor growth.
How to save a dying Bacopa
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown leaves, general wilting, soft or dry stems. Drastically reduced or ceased flowering.
- First aid
- Check drainage and substrate moisture. If waterlogged, repot with fresh substrate after checking roots. If dry, water deeply.
- What kills it
- Extreme over or underwatering are lethal. Also, exposure to frost or intense direct sun without acclimatization.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Good drainage and consistent watering (avoiding waterlogging or complete drying) are key for recovery. Prune damaged parts.