Bacopa
Sutera cordata
Trailing bacopa is a delicate spiller covered in small five-petaled white, pink, or blue flowers, ideal for cascading from baskets and containers.
- Light
- Full sun to part shade
- Water
- Regular; keep consistently moist
- Difficulty
- Moderate
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Overview
Ornamental bacopa, botanically Sutera cordata, is a low, trailing annual grown for the haze of tiny five-petaled flowers that cover its cascading stems all summer. It is a favorite spiller for hanging baskets and the edges of mixed containers.
It blooms continuously without deadheading in white, lavender-blue, and pink. Its one demand is consistent moisture: if it dries out, it can drop its flowers and be slow to recover, which is why it is rated slightly less foolproof than other annuals. (Note: the medicinal herb brahmi is a different plant, Bacopa monnieri.)
How to identify it
- Habit: Low, trailing, cascading stems to 12+ in
- Flowers: Tiny, 5-petaled, star- or bell-like, scattered along the stems
- Colors: White (most common), lavender-blue, pink
- Leaves: Small, rounded to oval, toothed, green
- Bloom time: Spring through frost, self-cleaning
Care & growing
Light: Full sun to part shade; some afternoon shade helps in hot climates.
Water: Must stay consistently moist; drying out causes flower drop and bud blast. Do not let it wilt.
Soil: Rich, well-drained, moisture-retentive potting mix.
Temperature: Prefers mild to warm conditions; can struggle in extreme heat.
Feeding: Feed regularly, as constant bloom is demanding; pale leaves signal it needs more nutrients.
Propagation: From stem cuttings; most varieties are patented hybrids.
Habitat & origin
Sutera cordata is native to southern Africa, where it grows in moist, sheltered habitats.
It is grown worldwide as a trailing container annual, especially valued in hanging baskets and window boxes where its cascading habit can be displayed.
Uses & benefits
Ornamental: A classic spiller and filler for hanging baskets, window boxes, and the front edges of containers; pairs well with geraniums, petunias, and other upright bloomers.
Ecological: The small flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Frequently asked questions
Why did my bacopa suddenly drop all its flowers?
Almost always because it dried out. Bacopa needs consistent moisture; once it wilts it often sheds buds and flowers and is slow to bounce back.
Is ornamental bacopa the same as the brahmi herb?
No. Ornamental bacopa is Sutera cordata. The medicinal herb brahmi is Bacopa monnieri, a different plant grown in water or wet soil.
Do I need to deadhead bacopa?
No, it is self-cleaning and blooms continuously without deadheading.
Why are my bacopa leaves turning pale?
It is a hungry plant; pale or yellowing foliage usually means it needs regular feeding.
Bacopa guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Bacopa.
