Bacopa monnieri (Water Hyssop)

Bacopa monnieri (Water Hyssop) is a creeping, mat-forming, aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial with small, succulent, oval, and shiny leaves. Blooming from mid-spring through fall (year-round in mild climates), it boasts a profusion of small, axillary, bell-shaped, white flowers that are often tinged with blue or pink. They attract a variety of small pollinators. Very adaptable, Water Hyssop can grow submerged in several inches of water. It makes a good ground cover that can take light foot traffic. Fast-growing, it is widely used as a hanging basket or container plant too. Native to the wetlands of southern and Eastern India, Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America, Water Hyssop occurs naturally in coastal hammocks and swales, swamps, salt, and freshwater marshes, and along river and stream edges. It is used medicinally in India and is being researched for antioxidant properties, to help the nervous system, and to improve memory and mental functions.

• Grows up to 12-36 in. tall (30-90 cm) and 12-48 in. wide (30-120 cm).
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in moist to wet soils. Tolerates waterlogged soil, brackish water, wind, and salt spray. Needs regular moisture and will grow directly in fresh or slightly brackish water or along the banks of streams, ponds, or aquariums. Can be grown in water up to 4-12 in. deep (10-30 cm).
• A good choice for bog gardens, water gardens, in hanging baskets, or draping over the edge of a container. It will also grow in moist soil or shallow water as a ground cover.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Trim back as needed to control growth.
• Propagate by divisions or by cuttings. Pick off trailing stems with roots and replant.
• Native to the wetlands of southern and Eastern India, Australia, Europe, Africa, Asia, and North and South America.