Overview
Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is also known by several common names such as Tall blue lobelia and Blue cardinal flower. The plant is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia.
Appearance
The Lobelia dolichopus plant grows up to a height of 2 to 3 feet tall and has a spread of 1 to 2 feet. It has an erect stem that is green in color with green leaves of about 5 inches long. The leaves of the plant have a light green color and have a lance-like shape. The stem of the plant bears multiple blue flowers that have a tubular shape with five petals that taper at the ends. The flowers of the Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. bloom from July to September.
Uses
The Lobelia dolichopus plant is widely used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory disorders. The plant contains alkaloids that have bronchodilator and expectorant properties. The extract of the Lobelia dolichopus plant is used in the manufacturing of various cough syrups, lozenges, and tablets.
Aside from its medicinal uses, Lobelia dolichopus also has ornamental uses. The plant is grown in gardens as an ornamental plant due to its attractive blue flowers and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant is also used in landscaping to add color and texture to gardens and other outdoor spaces.
Furthermore, the Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. plant is known to have a high tolerance for wet soils and sandy soils, making it useful for erosion control. The plant is also used for bioremediation of contaminated soils and water bodies due to its ability to absorb heavy metals such as lead and copper.
Growth Conditions of Lobelia dolichopus Schltr.
Light Requirements: Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. requires partial shade to full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate low light conditions, but the plant may not develop blooms.
Temperature Requirements: The ideal temperature for Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. growth is between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant does not tolerate frost or extreme temperatures, and exposure to such conditions may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements: Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. prefers well-drained, loamy soils rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.0.
The plant also requires consistent moisture levels in the soil, but it does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Fertilizer Requirements: Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. benefits from regular fertilization with a well-balanced fertilizer. It is recommended to fertilize every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season.
Propagation: Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. The best time for propagation is in the spring or early summer.
Overall, Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is a relatively easy plant to grow when provided with the suitable growth conditions.
Cultivation
Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is a tropical plant that requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. It is best grown in areas with partial to full shade, as direct sunlight can damage the plant. The plant can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings and should be planted in well-draining soil. Ensure that the soil remains moist at all times but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Watering Needs
Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. requires consistent watering to thrive. As a tropical plant, it prefers moist soil. However, overwatering can be detrimental to the plant's health, so it is best to water the plant regularly but avoid letting the soil become waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly at least once a week or more frequently if the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. benefits from regular fertilization to support its growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) during the plant's active growing season, from spring to early fall. Fertilize the plant every two weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions for dosage. Avoid fertilizing during the plant's dormant period, as it can harm the plant.
Pruning
Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote new growth. Prune the plant after flowering to remove spent flowers and stems. This will encourage the plant to produce new flowers and maintain its height and shape. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to prevent damage to the plant, and ensure that the cuts are made just above the node (where the leaves attach to the stem) to promote new growth.
Propagation of Lobelia dolichopus Schltr.
Propagation of Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. can be achieved through several methods, including seed sowing, stem cuttings, and division of established plants.
Seed Sowing
The easiest and most common method of propagating Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is by seed sowing. The seeds should be sown in late winter or early spring after stratification to break dormancy. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, barely cover them with soil, and water well. The seeds can be kept in a warm, bright location and should germinate in 14-21 days.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is also an effective method. Take stem cuttings of 2-3 inches with a few leaves attached early in spring or summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm, bright location. They will root in 2-3 weeks.
Division of Established Plants
Division of established plants is another method of propagating Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller parts. Replant the divided plants into well-draining soil in a bright, sheltered location, and water them well.
Propagation of Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is relatively easy and presents several methods that can be used to obtain additional plants. With the right conditions, the plant can quickly grow and provide a beautiful display of slender racemes of bright blue flowers that bloom throughout the summer.
Disease and Pest Management for Lobelia dolichopus Schltr.
Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is a relatively disease and pest-resistant plant. However, it is not entirely invincible. It may be affected by a few diseases and pests, which need to be managed to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is powdery mildew. It affects the leaves of the plant, forming a powdery white or grayish coating on them. This disease can reduce the plant's vigor and make it look unsightly, affecting its overall aesthetic values.
To manage powdery mildew, prune off any infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Keep the plant in a well-ventilated area to reduce humidity. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant to manage powdery mildew.
Common Pests
One of the common pests that can attack Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is aphids. They suck the sap from the plant's leaves and other parts, causing them to wither and die. Aphids also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and causes fungal growth.
To manage aphids, you can pick them off with your fingers or use a strong jet of water to spray them off the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage aphids.
Another common pest that affects Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is spider mites. They are tiny arachnids that feed on the plant's leaves, sucking the sap out of them and causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
To manage spider mites, you can start by hosing the plant off with water to knock off the mites. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage spider mites.
Overall, managing diseases and pests for Lobelia dolichopus Schltr. is crucial to keep the plant healthy and thriving. Pruning, proper care, and timely application of insecticides and fungicides can go a long way in preventing and managing diseases and pests.
