Overview
Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans (Schönland) E.Wimm. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Campanulaceae. It is commonly known as creeping lobelia or Dodds' lobelia. This plant is native to southern Africa and is found in countries such as Lesotho and South Africa.
Description
The creeping lobelia is a low-growing perennial herb that can reach up to 10 cm in height. It is a mat-forming plant that spreads through the production of runners, which form roots at the nodes. The leaves of the plant are arranged opposite each other along the stems and are oval-shaped with serrated edges. The flowers are tubular with a bright blue color and bloom in clusters from spring to summer.
Uses
Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans has a variety of medicinal uses among indigenous people in southern Africa. The plant has been used to treat respiratory tract infections, as well as digestive and inflammatory conditions. It is also used as a herbal remedy for various ailments such as headaches, toothaches, and menstrual pain. The plant is not commonly used in modern medicine, but its traditional uses have been passed down for generations.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the creeping lobelia is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. Its blue flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making it a popular choice for wildlife gardens.
Cultivation
Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and can withstand drought conditions, making it a good choice for xeriscaping. The plant can be propagated through division or by planting runners.
To encourage the production of flowers, the creeping lobelia should be planted in an area with full sun or partial shade. Regular watering is necessary during the plant's growing season, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Light Requirements
Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans prefers partial to full sunlight, with partial shade being ideal. Exposure to too much sunlight may cause wilting or burning of the leaves. Therefore, it is necessary to provide shading during the hottest period of the day in areas with harsh sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers cool and moist environments, and temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. It does not do well in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Temperatures below 5°C may cause the plant to wilt and die while temperatures above 30°C may cause drying and wilting of leaves.
Soil Requirements
Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans requires well-draining soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should have good water retention capacity. Additionally, the soil should not be too compact, and soil aeration is essential to ensure optimal growth and development of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Lobelia dodiana var. radicans is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil, but can also grow in moist soils. The plant is best grown in partial shade to full sun. It can be grown from seeds or propagated from cuttings.
Watering Needs
Lobelia dodiana var. radicans prefers evenly moist soil. It should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Lobelia dodiana var. radicans can benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer should be applied every two to three weeks during the growing season. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the use and amount of fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning Lobelia dodiana var. radicans is not necessary, but can help to promote fuller growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. Deadheading - the removal of spent flowers - can also help to promote additional blooming. However, it should be noted that this plant may be self-seeding, and unwanted seedlings may need to be removed.
Propagation of Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans (Schönland) E.Wimm.
Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans (Schönland) E.Wimm. is typically propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The plant produces small seeds that can be collected after the flowering phase is complete. The seeds need to be placed on top of moist soil and lightly pressed in. Keep the soil moist and warm by placing the pot in a sunny location. Germination can occur within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from healthy plants and rooted in water or a well-draining soil mix. Cut a stem approximately 4 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Optionally, dip the cutting in a rooting hormone to increase the chances of successful rooting. Place the cutting in water or soil and keep it moist. Rooting can occur within 4-6 weeks.
It's important to note that Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans (Schönland) E.Wimm. can be difficult to propagate through cuttings due to its delicate nature. It's recommended to take several cuttings and increase the chances of success.
Disease Management
Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans (Schönland) E.Wimm. is susceptible to several diseases that can significantly reduce its yield and quality. Some of the common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is easily recognizable by the white, powdery coating on the leaves, stem, and flowers of the plant. To prevent the disease from affecting the plant, it is crucial to maintain proper air circulation and avoid overwatering. If the plant is already infected, you can use neem oil or a fungicide spray to treat it.
- Bacterial Leaf Spot: Bacterial Leaf Spot is characterized by black or brown spots on the plants' leaves, and it can cause defoliation in severe cases. To prevent the disease from affecting your plant, avoid overhead watering and remove and destroy infected leaves promptly.
- Pythium Root Rot: Pythium Root Rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to turn brown or black. The plant also becomes stunted, and the leaves turn yellow. To prevent this disease, avoid overcrowding the plant, use well-drained soil, and do not overwater. If the plant is already infected, avoid overhead watering and treat it with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Some of the common pests that affect Lobelia dodiana E.Wimm. var. radicans (Schönland) E.Wimm. include:
- Aphids: These are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to curl and dry up. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Thrips: Thrips damage the plant by piercing the leaves and sucking the sap. The damaged leaves turn black, and the plant becomes stunted. You can control thrips by using yellow sticky traps or insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: Spider Mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow, dry up, and fall off. You can control spider mites by using neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Cultural practices such as avoiding overcrowding, maintaining proper air circulation, and providing regular watering can significantly reduce the risk of pests and diseases affecting your plant.
