Bacopa 'Snowflake' Chaenostoma cordatum 'Snowflake'

Water

Bacopa 'Snowflake' should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to become nearly dry between waterings. Generally, watering once a week is sufficient, but this may vary based on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. During hot, dry periods, bacopa may need watering twice a week. It's important to avoid waterlogging, so ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot. Depending on pot size and climate, you might use about 16 ounces of water for smaller pots or up to 1 gallon for larger containers each time you water.

Light

Bacopa 'Snowflake' thrives in full to partial sunlight. It is best to place the plant in a spot where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. However, in regions with very hot summers, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent the leaves from scorching. This plant is adaptable to various light conditions but flowering is most prolific when it gets plenty of light.

Temperature

Bacopa 'Snowflake' prefers mild temperatures and can be sensitive to extreme heat or cold. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but extended exposure to these extremes can be detrimental to the plant's health.

Pruning

Bacopa 'Snowflake' should be pruned to encourage bushiness and to remove any spent flowers or straggly growth. Pinching back the tips every few weeks during the active growing season can promote a fuller plant. The best time for major pruning is in early spring before new growth begins. Pruning not only shapes the plant but also stimulates new flowers and rejuvenates the overall appearance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Bacopa 'Snowflake' prefers a soil mix that is well-draining, light and rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat, perlite, and potting soil in equal parts works well. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.0 and 7.0.

Repotting

Bacopa 'Snowflake' typically needs repotting every one to two years. It's best done in spring, before the onset of rapid growth, or when the plant has outgrown its current container.

Humidity & Misting

Bacopa 'Snowflake' thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. Maintaining this level will encourage lush growth and abundant flowering.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Prefer bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, keep soil moist and protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Bacopa 'Snowflake' begins life as a seed germinating in warm, moist soil where it quickly establishes a root system and sprouts its first leaves. The seedling grows into a lush, trailing plant with numerous branches and small, oval leaves, which is highly adaptable to both container planting and ground cultivation in a sunny to a partly shaded location. After reaching maturity, Bacopa 'Snowflake' produces a profusion of small, delicate white flowers that cover the plant throughout the growing season, particularly from late spring to early fall, attracting pollinators. Following the flowering stage, seeds form and are dispersed, allowing for natural propagation if they land in a suitable growing environment. In areas with mild winters, Bacopa 'Snowflake' can behave as a perennial plant, while in colder climates, it is usually cultivated as an annual. The plant's life can be extended through cuttings that easily root in water or moist soil, making propagation simple for ongoing cultivation.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Summer

• Chaenostoma cordatum 'Snowflake', commonly known as Bacopa 'Snowflake', is best propagated during the warm growing season, typically spring or early summer. Among the methods of propagation, the most popular for this plant is through stem cuttings. To propagate Bacopa 'Snowflake' by stem cuttings, a gardener should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut it just below a leaf node. The cutting should be about 3 to 5 inches (approximately 7.5 to 12.5 centimeters) long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Afterward, the stem cutting should be planted in a moist, well-draining potting mix, making sure at least one node is below the soil surface. With proper care, which includes keeping the soil consistently moist and providing indirect light, roots should develop within a few weeks.