Chaenostoma cordatum
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Chaenostoma cordatum

Ornamental Bacopa · Bacopa · Sutera diffusa · Heartleaf Chaenostoma · Snöflinga

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
20–37 °C
Soil pH
5–7
Hardiness
Zone 9–11
Click count
572
Observations
739

Description

Source: leafsnap

Chaenostoma cordatum, also known as sutera cordata, bacopa cordata, sutera diffusus, or bacopa (not the genus Bacopa), is one of 52 species in the genus Chaenostoma (Scrophulariaceae), and is native to South Africa.The bacopa cabana, or The Pikmin Flower, was bred into existence within a promotion for Nintendo's video game Pikmin (2001).

🌳 Aside from its typical use in gardens, bacopa also fulfills an unconventional role in cleaning gray water. Its dense foliage and quick growth allow it to take up pollutants and excess nutrients, making it a valuable element in biologically active filtration systems. This both makes waste water reusable for irrigation and lessens the environmental impact, illustrating the plant's potential in sustainable water management practices.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days
Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
☀️ Light Full sun

Bacopa performs best with plenty of natural light and can tolerate moderate sun exposure. Its growth can be impaired if the light is either too scarce or overly abundant. In its native environment it is found in places with ample natural light, though not necessarily constantly in intense direct sunlight.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Bacopa is native to regions where temperatures range from 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 °C). It favors milder climates. As seasons shift, occasional adjustments may be necessary to keep temperatures optimal.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity normal (40-60%)

This plant will thrive in moderate humidity, which is probably the level in your home. However, misting it a few times a week can be very beneficial. Make sure the room has good ventilation.

Humidity: normal (40-60%)
🪴 Soil 5-7
Soil pH: 5-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Proper fertilization is essential for Bacopa's health and appearance. Fertilize Bacopa in summer, applying it once a month throughout the season. Nutrients supply the energy for growth and support the plant's parts. Fertilization improves Bacopa's floral display, ensuring the best blooms.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial, Annual
Genus
Chaenostoma
Family
Scrophulariaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
5 cm to 10 cm
Mature Spread
30 cm to 46 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen, Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
White, Pink
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Summer
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Summer, Early fall

Tags (3)

Common Names (7)

en Ornamental Bacopa
en Bacopa
en Sutera diffusa
en Heartleaf Chaenostoma
en Snöflinga
en Chaenostoma
en Snowstorm