Plant Profile: Bacopa caroliniana

Blue Water-hyssop is a native perennial wildflower that creeps along the ground, belonging to the plantain family. It thrives in various habitats, including shores, tidal muds, marshes, disturbed wetlands, and coastal areas of the southeastern United States and Cuba. When its thick, succulent leaves are crushed, they emit a pleasant lemon fragrance. While this plant can withstand heat, it does not tolerate drought or salt conditions. It is frequently utilized in aquariums, although the varieties typically available may not be the native species.

In its natural environment, Blue Water-hyssop can reach lengths of up to 40 inches, flourishing in boggy or partially submerged settings and demonstrating resilience when fully submerged. It can be cultivated near ponds in warmer regions or kept as a houseplant in an aquarium or shallow container. Outdoors, it thrives in semi-shade, but indoors, it requires bright lighting to flourish.