Overview
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. burttii (E.A.Bruce) Mabb. is a perennial plant species belonging to the Lobeliaceae family. It is also commonly known as Burtt's lobelia or Decken's lobelia. This plant is native to Africa, where it is widespread across the highlands of Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
General Appearance
Burtt's lobelia is a flowering plant that can grow up to 50 centimeters tall. It has an erect stem that bears long, narrow leaves which are green in color and have a slightly serrated margin. The plant produces showy clusters of bright blue flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The flowers are tubular in shape and have a white throat. The fruit of this plant is a capsule containing numerous small seeds.
Traditional Uses
Various parts of Burtt's lobelia are used in traditional African medicine to treat a wide range of ailments including respiratory diseases, stomach pains, and skin infections. In Kenya, a decoction of the whole plant is used to treat snake bites and general body pains. The plant is also used to treat malaria, fever and as an emetic.
Besides, Burtt's lobelia has been used traditionally in eastern Africa as a tobacco substitute by the Samburu and Turkana tribes. They dry and smoke the leaves, which are believed to be milder and less addictive than tobacco, and also use it as a decongestant.
In modern times, the plant is used in horticulture as an ornamental plant because of its striking blue flowers and unique growth habit.
Cultivation
Burtt's lobelia thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained soils. It can be propagated by seeds, cuttings or division of the rhizomes. The plant can be grown in containers or directly in the ground and requires regular watering. It is prone to pests like aphids and spider mites, and fungal diseases like powdery mildew.
Growth Conditions for Lobelia deckenii subsp. burttii
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. burttii (E.A.Bruce) Mabb. is a small plant native to the alpine regions of East Africa. To grow successfully, this plant requires specific environmental conditions.
Light Requirements
This plant needs bright but indirect sunlight to thrive. It is important to avoid direct sunlight as it can cause leaf scorch, especially in hot climates. In its natural habitat, it grows in areas with a lot of cloud cover, so it is adapted to low light conditions. Therefore, it is important to provide shade for the plant if it is grown in a hot climate.
Temperature Requirements
Lobelia deckenii subsp. burttii grows best in cool temperatures. Its natural habitat is in the high altitudes of mountaintops where the temperatures are cool year-round. It grows well in temperature ranges between 10-24°C (50-75°F). In warmer environments, it is important to provide a cool and humid environment by growing it in a greenhouse or placing it in a cool, shaded area.
Soil Requirements
This plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. In its natural habitat, it grows in rocky soil, but it will still grow well in regular potting soil mixed with sand or perlite to promote good drainage. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. To ensure the soil stays moist and cool, it is recommended to mulch around the base of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. burttii (E.A.Bruce) Mabb. is a perennial plant that is best grown in well-draining soil. It grows best in areas with full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate to regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. Watering should be reduced in the winter months.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. burttii (E.A.Bruce) Mabb. requires regular fertilization. This can be achieved by applying a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. It is important to avoid over-fertilization as this can lead to leaf burn and damage to the plant.
Pruning
To promote healthy growth and maintain the desirable shape of the plant, regular pruning is recommended. This can be done by removing any dead or diseased branches and cutting back the plant after it has finished flowering. Pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the delicate stems of the plant.
Propagation Methods for Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. burttii (E.A.Bruce) Mabb.
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. burttii (E.A.Bruce) Mabb., commonly known as Burtt’s Lobelia, is a beautiful plant that grows well in both outdoor and indoor settings. Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be done both by seed and vegetative methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Lobelia deckenii subsp. burttii is through seed sowing. The seeds of this plant are small and should be sown just below the soil surface. It is advisable to mix the seeds with a small amount of sand to prevent them from clumping together and to ensure even distribution.
The optimal time for sowing the seeds is during the spring season. The seedlings should be kept warm, at a temperature of around 24-26°C, and in bright, indirect light. Once the seedlings have germinated, they should be gradually acclimatized to brighter light conditions and cooler temperatures. Transplanting of the seedlings should be done once they have two sets of leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Propagation of Lobelia deckenii subsp. burttii can also be done through vegetative methods, such as division and cuttings. Division is the simplest method and involves separating the plant into smaller clumps and replanting them in suitable soil.
Cuttings can be taken from the stem of a healthy parent plant and should be around 7-10 cm in length. The leaves at the base of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a pot filled with moist soil. The pot with the cutting should be kept in a warm, bright, and humid environment until the roots have developed, after which, it can be transplanted into a larger pot.
Overall, propagation of Lobelia deckenii subsp. burttii is a relatively easy process that requires little effort and care. Both seed and vegetative propagation methods have their unique benefits and can be used interchangeably to propagate this beautiful plant.
Disease Management
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. burttii (E.A.Bruce) Mabb. can be susceptible to various diseases, such as root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. To manage these diseases, it is important to take preventative measures.
One of the best ways to prevent diseases is to maintain good hygiene practices. This includes removing any diseased plant material, avoiding overhead watering, and keeping the plant's environment clean. It is also important to plant Lobelia deckenii in well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
If a disease does appear, it is important to act quickly. Remove any diseased material immediately and consider using an appropriate fungicide. Always follow the instructions on the product label and never apply more than necessary.
Pest Management
Lobelia deckenii can also be susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and slugs. To manage these pests, there are a few different methods to consider.
One option is to use natural predators or parasites, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to control the pest population. Introducing these beneficial bugs to the environment can help keep pests under control.
Alternatively, you can use organic pesticides or fungicides specifically designed for the targeted pest. Again, always follow the instructions on the product label and avoid using more than necessary.
Overall, taking preventative measures and identifying problems early can greatly improve the success of managing diseases and pests affecting Lobelia deckenii.
