Species Profile: Waterhyssop

Bacoopa monnieri

Waterhyssop

Species Profile

Introduction

Waterhyssop, AKA Water Hyssop, Coastal Water Hyssop and simply Bacopa, is a relatively common plant. Its leaves resemble those of succulents in appearance and texture. It's white-purple flowers are subtle but in high numbers blooming form spring into the fall. Its maximum height is 6-12 inches, depending on growing conditions. However, we typically see it under 6 inches, especially around manicured ponds and lakes.

Waterhyssop in bloom in July, Grayson County TX.

Where does it grow?

Generally speaking, these plants prefer wetlands, ditches, pond and lake shorelines, etc. It does really well in saturated soils along the waters edge and low areas where soils stay saturated. It's not uncommon to see them along manicured ponds and lakes where they can persist with regular mowing/weed eating.

How tough is it?

These are tough plants, dealing with short term flooding or short term dry spells relatively well. They do tend to handle flooding conditions better than drought or pseudo drought like conditions. As we mentioned, it can also be found along the edge of manicured ponds such as those within Home Owners Associations, where its common (albeit not recommended) to mow and weed eat to the waters edge.

Waterhyssop in production, Grayson County TX.

How is it beneficial?

These can be great for new ponds and lakes for erosion prevention and mitigation. Their root structure is complex and hold soils well. When water's are high, they provide habitat for invertebrates and small fishes as well. All without inhibiting pond access. There's also a subtle aesthetic for their small white-purple flowers. It also serves as a forage source for some waterfowl species.

How does it spread/grow?

Their most obvious method to spread is sprawling and fragmentation, where each node can produce leaves or roots.. However, seeds are regularly produced and stand at the ready to germinate in the right conditions.

Waterhyssop exhibiting its sprawling growth, extending outside the growing container.

How to tell if from other plants?

Distinguishing Bacopa sp. from each other is relatively easy, however most grow in very similar conditions. Lemon Bacopa (B. caroliniana) has dark blue flowers and when leaves are crushed, produce a lemon scent. Disc Water Hyssop (B. rotundifolia) tends to be found in standing water, but still does well in saturated soils. It's leaves are small and yellowish colored, while the leaves are larger than those of B. monnieri.

What else should you know about this plant?

Waterhyssop is the most common species, especially in developed areas. However you can still find the other species across many wet areas in the United States.