Bacopa monnieri (aka Moneywort) is a popular aquatic and semi-aquatic plant valued for its decorative look, ease of growth, and potential health benefits (used in herbal medicine as well). In aquariums, it is mainly appreciated for its aesthetic and functional roles.
🔎 Basic Characteristics
Type: Stem plant, perennial
Origin: India, Southeast Asia (freshwater habitats)
Leaf color: Bright to medium green
Leaf shape: Small, rounded or oval leaves in opposite pairs
Growth rate: Moderate to fast
Height: 10–40 cm (depending on lighting and trimming)
Difficulty: Easy – beginner-friendly
💧 Aquarium Requirements
Light: Low to medium; strong light promotes compact, bushy growth
CO₂: Optional, but encourages faster and denser growth
Temperature: 20–28 °C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Water hardness: Soft to medium
🌱 Growth Habit
Grows vertically as stems with leaves opposite each node
Can be planted in substrate or tied to hardscape
Forms bushy midground or background plants
Responds well to trimming; trimming encourages bushier stems
Can grow partially emersed (above water) in paludariums