Overview of Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb.
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. is a flowering plant species in the Campanulaceae family. It is native to the high-altitude regions of East Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania. This plant is commonly known as Lobelia, Giant Lobelia, or Towering Lobelia.
Appearance
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. is a giant, perennial herb that can grow up to 8 meters tall. The plant has a stout stem that is covered with thick hair-like bristles. The leaves of the plant are ovate-lanceolate, hairless, and thick. The inflorescence is a densely packed, cylindrical spire made up of many small blue to purple flowers. The fruit is a capsule that contains many small seeds.
Uses
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. is used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments. In East Africa, the plant's leaves are used to make tea that can relieve colds, coughs, and respiratory congestion. The plant's roots and sap are used to treat wounds, inflammation, and headaches. In addition, the plant has been used in the perfume industry due to its sweet scent.
Furthermore, Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. is valued for its ornamental qualities and is grown in gardens around the world. The plant is often used as a focal point in garden design due to its imposing height and unique appearance.
Light Requirements
Lobelia deckenii subsp. bequaertii grows well in full sun to partial shade. However, it tends to flower more profusely in bright sunlight than in shade. It is important to ensure that the plant receives sufficient light to facilitate photosynthesis and keep it in good health.
Temperature Requirements
For optimal growth and development, Lobelia deckenii subsp. bequaertii requires a cool and moist environment. It thrives in temperatures that range between 8°C and 25°C. Extreme temperatures below 5°C and above 30°C can cause stress to the plant, leading to stunted growth or even death.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.0. It also requires moisture-retentive soils that are well-draining. Sandy or loamy soils that are rich in organic matter are ideal. The roots of the plant prefer to be in a cool environment, so it is essential to ensure that soil moisture levels are kept constant to prevent the plant from drying out.
Cultivation
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows best in full sunlight to partial shade. It thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant does well in containers as well as in garden beds and borders. When planting, make sure to space them at least 30 cm apart.
The plant is native to the high-altitude areas of East Africa and can tolerate cool temperatures with a minimum of 7°C and maximum of 20°C. It is a typically slow-growing plant, taking 3-5 years to reach maturity. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance.
Watering Needs
It is important to keep the soil around the plant consistently moist, but not saturated. Watering once or twice a week is sufficient, but more frequent watering may be necessary in hot and dry weather. To conserve moisture, add a layer of mulch around the plant.
One important thing to note is that Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. prefers watering from the bottom rather than from the top of the plant, as this can cause water to collect and damage the leaves and stems.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season to maintain healthy growth and flowering. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every four weeks and reduce the frequency during the winter months. Avoid over-fertilization as it can stimulate excessive foliage growth and prevent flowering.
Pruning
Some light pruning may be necessary to promote bushy growth and to remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems. Cut back the plant by about one-third in early spring to encourage fresh growth and a more compact form. You can also remove spent flower spikes to encourage continuous blooming.
Propagation methods of Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb.
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division.
Seed Propagation:
Seeds of Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. can be sown in seed trays or pots filled with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist. The trays or pots should be kept in a warm, bright, and humid area until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings grow to a suitable size, they can be transplanted into larger pots or the garden.
Cutting Propagation:
Softwood cuttings of Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. can be taken during the growing season. The cuttings should be taken from the tip of the stem and should not exceed 10cm in length. The leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting should be inserted into a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, bright, and humid area until roots develop. Once the cutting has developed roots, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or the garden.
Division:
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. bequaertii (De Wild.) Mabb. can be propagated through division in early spring when new growth appears. The plant should be dug up carefully, and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots and stems. The divided sections can be planted in pots or directly in the garden, with adequate water to help them establish.
Disease Management
Lobelia deckenii subsp. bequaertii is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it may be vulnerable to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew.
The best management practice for fungal diseases is prevention. Avoid overhead watering and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Additionally, remove and dispose of any infected plant debris.
If the plant does become infected, fungicides containing copper or sulfur can be effective treatments.
Pest Management
Lobelia deckenii subsp. bequaertii can be susceptible to insect pests such as whiteflies and aphids.
To manage these pests, physical removal by hand or with a stream of water can be effective. Additionally, using insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control populations.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly to catch any infestations early and take necessary action to prevent spread and damage.
