Overview of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. is a small, perennial plant belonging to the Lobeliaceae family. It is native to the highlands of Tanzania and is commonly found growing in wetlands and marshy areas. The plant is known for its attractive flowers and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Common Names of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. is commonly known as Compton's Lobelia, Violet Lobelia, and Mountain Lobelia. The plant is also known as Wimms Lobelia, named after its discoverer, the German botanist Ernst Wimm.
Appearance of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
The plant grows up to a height of 30 to 50 cm and has light green, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged oppositely along the stem. The stems are thin, reddish in colour and erect. The plant blooms from mid-summer to early autumn and produces violet, tubular flowers with five lobes. The flowers are about 12-15mm long and are arranged in dense racemes. Each flower has a prominent white tube at the base. The fruit is a small, round capsule that contains numerous tiny seeds.
Uses of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. has a few medicinal uses, mainly in traditional African medicine. The plant is used to treat various conditions such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. The leaves and stems of the plant are dried and used to make teas, or are smoked to relieve respiratory problems. The plant also has ornamental value and can be grown in gardens and parks as a ground cover or an accent plant. It is an attractive addition to rock gardens and borders due to its colourful flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
The Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. plant thrives best in areas with partial shade or indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant and cause damage to the leaves. If grown indoors, use a bright window with indirect sunlight or fluorescent bulbs.
Temperature Requirements
The Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. plant prefers moderate temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 75°F (24°C). During the daytime, temperatures between 68°F (20°C) to 72°F (22°C) are ideal, while nighttime temperatures should not drop below 50°F (10°C). Extremely high temperatures can lead to heat stress, causing the plant to wilt or die.
Soil Requirements
The Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. plant thrives in well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic soils with a pH between 5.5 to 6.5. Sandy loam soil with organic matter is ideal for the plant's optimal growth. Avoid waterlogged soils as they can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged at all times.
Cultivation of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
The Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. plant prefers a well-draining soil mix that retains some moisture. It thrives in partially shaded positions, and care should be taken to prevent it from experiencing extended periods of direct sunlight.
If growing indoors, ensure there is adequate humidity available, and keep the plant away from excessive heat sources. It grows well in pots or hanging baskets, though larger containers will provide more room to grow for this plant.
Watering Needs for Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
This plant species requires moderate watering. Overwatering will lead to root rot, so avoid consistently soggy soil. Water the plant every few days, or when the soil is dry to the touch.
For best results, use rainwater, as Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. is sensitive to water hardness and chemical additives found in typical tap water. Allow the water to sit out for a few hours or overnight before using it to allow any chlorine present in the water to evaporate.
Fertilization of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
Applying a quality slow-release fertilizer to the soil mixture will provide adequate nutrients during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer every other week with some success.
If applying a slow-release fertilizer, use it every four to six months, taking care not to over-fertilize. Over-fertilization will manifest in distorted or discolored foliage growth.
Pruning Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
The ideal time to prune Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. plant is during the fall season, totaling back any scraggly foliage or runaway stems. Pruning ensures the plant maintains its compact growth habit and encourages even foliage growth.
Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant during trimming. Dispose of any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves to ensure the plant's health and vitality.
Propagation of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. can be propagated through various methods. These methods are:
1. Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most widely used method of propagating Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. The seeds can be sown indoors or outdoors. Although the seeds can be sown at any time, it is advisable to sow them during spring or autumn. The seeds should be sown on the surface of fine soil, and only a very light covering of soil should be used. The soil should be kept moist during the germination period. The germination period may last for around two weeks.
2. Vegetative Propagation
The vegetative propagation of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. can be done through stem cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be taken during the growing season, and the rooting hormone should be used as per the manufacturer's instructions. The cuttings should be planted in a pot or a tray filled with potting mix. The soil should be kept moist and warm during the rooting period. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have established.
3. Division Propagation
Division propagation is a method in which the parent plant is divided into smaller sections, and each section is planted separately. This method is useful for propagating mature plants that have grown too large for their pots or garden beds. The plant can be lifted, and the root ball can be carefully divided into smaller sections. Each section should have roots and some foliage. The sections can be planted in pots or directly into the garden bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm.
Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to few diseases and pests, which needs to be managed properly. Here are some common diseases and pests of Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm. and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Crown Rot: This disease is caused by fungus Phytophthora cactorum and shows symptoms like dying or rotting of plant crown, wilted shoots and discolored leaves. To manage this disease, you can avoid overwatering, manage soil drainage, and remove infected plants. Fungicide applications may also be helpful in controlling the disease.
Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by a fungus called Cercospora lobeliae. The disease symptoms include dark spots on leaves, which grow larger and become yellow in color. The leaves may also fall off, causing defoliation. To manage this disease, you can maintain plant hygiene, remove infected leaves, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide application may also be helpful in controlling the disease.
Pests
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant and cause twisted, deformed leaves and stunted growth. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their populations. Pruning and removing severely infested portions of the plant may also be helpful.
Cutworms: These are caterpillar larvae that cut down the stem of seedlings at the soil line, causing plant death. To manage this pest, you can put a collar around the plant stem to prevent the larvae from accessing the stem. You may also use bacteria such as Bacillus thuringiensis, which can be applied as a foliar spray to control the pest.
Spider Mites: These are tiny, red or brown mites that feed on the leaves of the plant and cause yellowing, bronzing or mottling of the leaves. To manage this pest, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil or other selective insecticides to control their populations. You can also increase humidity around the plant to control their reproduction and movement.
Managing diseases and pests in Lobelia comptonii E.Wimm is essential for its healthy growth and productivity. By following preventive measures and proper management strategies, you can maintain a healthy plant and enjoy its beauty for a long time.
