Overview
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. sattimae (R.E.Fr. & T.C.E.Fr.) Mabb. is a perennial herbaceous plant native to East Africa. It is a member of the Campanulaceae family and the genus Lobelia, which includes over 400 species worldwide. The plant is also known by its common name, Sattima lobelia.
Appearance
Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae has a unique, slender, and upright growth habit, with stems that can reach up to 2m in height. The leaves are large, glossy, and alternate, with a bright green coloration. The plant bears beautiful blue-violet tubular flowers that bloom in loose terminal racemes, and its flowers can measure up to 3.5cm in length. The plant's unique appearance and striking flowers make it an attractive addition to any garden or landscape.
Uses
The Sattima lobelia is widely used in Eastern Africa for medicinal purposes. The juice extracted from the plant's leaves is believed to have potent analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties that are useful in treating various ailments such as fever, headaches, and stomach upsets. Furthermore, the plant has been traditionally used to relieve coughs, asthma, and bronchitis. In addition, some indigenous communities in East Africa use the plant for spiritual purposes, such as invoking rainfall, good fortune, and protection.
The plant has also been used for ornamental purposes, as it is well-suited for adding vertical interest to garden beds or as a backdrop plant. Its striking blooms are also attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to any pollinator garden.
Cultivation
Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae is best grown in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soils, and it thrives in warm temperatures. Propagation is best done through seed germination or cuttings, and the plant is relatively easy to propagate. The plant requires regular watering to maintain its lush green foliage, and it is recommended to fertilize the plant during the growing season to encourage optimal growth.
Overall, Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae is a unique, versatile, and valuable plant species with numerous medicinal and ornamental uses. Its striking blue-violet flowers, upright growth habit, and hardy nature make it a must-have for any garden or landscape enthusiast.
Light Conditions
Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae typically prefers partial to full sun exposure, where it can receive a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight per day. In shaded areas, the plant may grow, but may produce fewer flowers and be less vigorous.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a variety of temperature conditions, but it typically thrives in mild to warm conditions. It is known to tolerate temperatures up to 24°C. However, the plant may go into dormancy during extreme heat and resume growth once the temperatures stabilize.
Soil Requirements
The plant typically prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows well in soils with pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate different types of soil, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils. However, the soil should not remain waterlogged.
Cultivation
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. sattimae (R.E.Fr. & T.C.E.Fr.) Mabb. is native to Kenya and requires warm to hot temperatures. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant is vulnerable to frost, so it is advisable to cultivate it indoors in colder regions or during the winter season.
Watering Needs
The Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae plant prefers moist soil but not soggy. It is crucial to ensure that the soil remains moist but not wet, as the plant can easily develop root rot disease due to overwatering. It is advisable to water the plant when the top two inches of the soil feel dry, and it is best to use a watering can instead of a sprinkler system to avoid getting water on the leaves and flowers.
Fertilization
This plant requires regular fertilization to encourage growth and blooming. You can use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month or incorporate a slow-release granular fertilizer into the soil during the growing season. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flower production, so it is crucial to follow the package instructions carefully.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae plant looking tidy and healthy. You can remove dead or damaged leaves, branches, and flowers to enhance its appearance and promote new growth. It is best to prune in the early spring before the growing season begins. It is advisable to use sharp and clean pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae
The Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae plant can be propagated through different methods. Understanding these methods can help gardeners grow their plants successfully and effortlessly.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae through seeds is the most common method. The seeds can be collected from mature plants, dried and stored before planting. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix at a depth of 2-3 mm. The ideal time to sow the seeds is in late winter or early spring. Keep the soil moist and warm, at a temperature between 20-25°C, for the seeds to germinate. The seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they reach a certain size as per their growth rate.
Division
Another method of propagation for Lobelia deckenii is vegetative propagation, which is ideal for established plants. The division method is recommended for propagating the plant through vegetative means. It can be done by dividing the plant clumps every two or three years. This is best carried out in spring or autumn. Start by carefully digging out the plant, divide the crown into smaller pieces, then replant them in pots or new locations in the garden. Water them regularly until new growth appears.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae through cuttings is also a viable option. Take stem cuttings of 5-10 cm in length from a healthy plant, then remove the lower leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting powder and plant it in a moist mix of soil and sand. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, well-lit area. The cutting should root in approximately two to three weeks.
Overall, Lobelia deckenii subsp. sattimae is a relatively easy plant to propagate and maintain. With the right care and conditions, gardeners can enjoy a healthy and luscious plant all year round.
Disease Management
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. sattimae (R.E.Fr. & T.C.E.Fr.) Mabb. is prone to various diseases that can affect its growth and vigor. Here are a few common diseases of Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. sattimae and their management techniques:
- Crown rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the base of the plant near the soil line. To manage crown rot, remove the affected plant parts and destroy them. Avoid overwatering and improve the drainage of the soil.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that manifests as brown spots on the foliage of Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. sattimae. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected foliage and avoid overhead watering to prevent the infection from spreading.
- Root rot: Root rot is a condition caused by the presence of fungi in the soil. It affects the roots of the plant, making it difficult for the plant to absorb nutrients. To manage root rot, remove the affected plant parts and improve the soil drainage. Avoid overwatering and planting in soils that are prone to waterlogging.
Pest Management
Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. sattimae (R.E.Fr. & T.C.E.Fr.) Mabb. is also prone to several pests that can affect its growth and vigor. Here are a few common pests of Lobelia deckenii (Asch.) Hemsl. subsp. sattimae and their management techniques:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can suck the sap from the plant, weakening it. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap, or use an insecticidal soap that’s safe for plants.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause serious damage to the plant. They tend to congregate on the undersides of the foliage, feeding on the sap and causing yellowing and discoloration. To manage spider mites, wash the foliage with a strong jet of water, or use a miticide specifically designed to manage spider mites.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of moths that can consume entire sections of the plant overnight. To manage cutworms, handpick them from the plant and destroy them. You can also use a biological control like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
