Overview
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. is a species of flowering plant in the Campanulaceae family. It is native to South America and is commonly found in Bolivia and Argentina.
Common Names
The common names for Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. include "Ch'imu," "Ch'iwantu," and "Kewiña."
Appearance
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. is a perennial plant that grows up to 50 centimeters high. It has rosettes of green and narrow leaves that are up to 12 centimeters long and 1.5 centimeters wide. The flowers of the plant are blue, purple, or violet and grow in spike-like clusters at the end of branched stems. The blooms are tubular with five petals and can be up to 2 centimeters in length.
Uses
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. has several medicinal uses in traditional medicine for the treatment of respiratory ailments and as a natural sedative. The plant contains alkaloids that have been found to be effective in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis. It is also used as a mild sedative to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Additionally, the plant is used locally in traditional cooking as a spice.
Light Requirements
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. typically grows in areas with partial to full sun exposure. It needs at least four hours of direct sunlight to thrive but can also grow well in shaded conditions. In shaded areas, it tends to produce fewer flowers and may have weaker stems compared to those grown in full sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
For Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. to grow well, it requires moderate temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. Temperatures above 30°C can lead to wilting and death of the plant. At temperatures lower than 10°C, the plant will go dormant or may die. It is essential to note that the plant is adapted to grow well in tropical and subtropical regions.
Soil Requirements
The optimal soil for Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. should be well-drained and have a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant prefers fertile soils rich in organic matter that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. In areas with poor soils, adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil quality and provide the necessary nutrients that the plant needs.
Cultivation Methods
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm., commonly known as Hairy calyx lobelia, is a beautiful flowering plant native to Madagascar. It can be grown in both indoor and outdoor environments, as long as the right cultivation methods are applied. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil with a pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It also requires bright, indirect light and a consistent temperature of 18°C to 25°C.
To ensure proper growth and development, it is recommended to propagate Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. through stem cuttings or division. These methods will promote healthy growth and ensure that the plant is best suited for the environment it is propagated in. The plant should be repotted as it outgrows its container, and the old soil should be replaced with fresh soil mixed with compost.
Watering Needs
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. requires consistent moisture for optimal growth. The plant needs to be watered when the top 2-3 cm of soil has dried out. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. During summers, regular misting of the plant's leaves can help maintain appropriate levels of moisture, especially in dry environments.
Fertilization
Regular nutritional supplementation is necessary to ensure the optimal growth of the Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. plant. While young, the plant should be fertilized every two weeks with a liquid fertilizer, high in nitrogen content. During flowering, the fertilizer should be high in potassium and phosphorus. A balanced fertilizer should be used during the rest of the growth period.
Pruning
Regular pruning is essential for Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. to maintain healthy growth, shape, and vigor. Pruning should be done regularly by pinching back growth to keep the plant compact and bushy. Deadheading, or removing dead or spent flowers, should also be a part of routine maintenance. The aim of pruning is to direct plant growth, maintain the natural aesthetic appearance, promote growth, and reduce the risk of pest and disease infection.
Propagation of Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm.
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. can be propagated through different methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. Seeds should be collected from mature plants and should be sown during the spring or fall. The seeds can be sown in trays or pots filled with well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of sand. The trays or pots should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area. The seeds will germinate within two weeks under suitable conditions. Once they have grown to a certain size, they can be transplanted to individual pots and then to their permanent planting location.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is an alternative method for Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. Cuttings can be collected from the parent plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be healthy, around 5-10 cm long, and should have a few nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in pots filled with well-draining soil. The pots should be kept moist, and placed in a shaded area. The cuttings will root within a few weeks, and can then be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division is another method for Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm.. This method is best used for mature plants that have established roots. The parent plant should be lifted from the soil, and the root ball should be gently separated into smaller sections. Each section should have stems, leaves, and roots. The sections can be replanted into individual pots or directly in their permanent location. The divided sections should be kept moist for several weeks, until they have established new roots.
Disease Management
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. is susceptible to several diseases that reduce plant health and productivity. Disease management measures must be put in place to control and prevent the spread of diseases.
Botrytis Blight: This disease appears as a gray or brown rot that destroys the flowers of the plant. Proper plant spacing and good air circulation can help control botrytis blight. Also, avoid wetting the plants when watering to reduce the occurrence of this disease. In cases of severe infection, apply a fungicide containing copper or sodium bicarbonate to control the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil, and it can lead to the death of the plant. Avoid overwatering the plants and provide good drainage. If root rot is detected, apply a fungicide containing Trichoderma or other beneficial fungi that can suppress the disease.
Pest Management
Lobelia lasiocalycina E.Wimm. is also vulnerable to pests that cause damage to the plant.
Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from plant tissue, leading to yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids. Avoid excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers, which can increase the likelihood of an aphid infestation.
Spider Mites: These pests are usually found in hot, dry conditions and can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plants. Spray the plants with water to increase humidity, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
Caterpillars: These larvae feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, leading to defoliation. Handpick and remove visible caterpillars, or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray to control the pests.
Implementing good cultural practices such as proper watering, fertilization, and pruning can help prevent and control pest infestations. Always monitor the plant carefully, and take action promptly if any signs of pest or disease problems are observed.
